Diego Lopez has thanked Iker Casillas for the support he has given him this season and the recent praise he showered on his goalkeeping rival at Real Madrid.
World Cup winning captain, and club legend, Casillas, told journalists that Lopez is one of the key reasons why Los Blancos are top of the table. Lopez has been used by Carlo Ancelotti in La Liga this season, while Casillas has had to make do with a bit part role, playing in the Copa del Rey and Champions League.
Speaking after keeping another clean sheet after the 1-0 win at Malaga on Saturday evening, Lopez said he respects Casillas and listens to every word his captain says.
“I respect everyone’s opinion and I want to help my club, and fight for the team as Iker does,” Lopez said.
He added: “He is the captain and an icon and I appreciate his words. I’m a lot happier when I play but I like Iker a lot. We’re competing for a place in the biggest team in the world. I demand a lot of myself and keep demanding more.”
Despite the narrow win at La Rosaleda, Lopez said he never felt Malaga threatened too much and Los Blancos were always in control.
He stated: “We controlled the game, although the score led to some uncertainty near the end. It was clearly not our best game but we didn’t have many problems. We were in control. With a 1-0 score line you should have finished the game before the final whistle and while it was tight, it hasn’t cost us.”
