Real Madrid captain Iker Casillas says the team’s supporters have the right to criticise him and that it encourages him to work harder to win back their respect.
The 33-year-old has had a tough few months, coming off the back of a poor World Cup for Spain and starting the season slowly with Los Blancos. He conceded four goals in the defeat at Real Sociedad two weeks ago and was blamed for his part in the goals conceded to Atletico de Madrid last night.
Speaking to reporters after the game, Casillas said criticism is part and parcel of the game. He added that when fans whistle and jeer him, it spurs him on to train harder and perform better in the next game.
“The crowd have the final say and if they think they should whistle you have to accept it and respect their opinions. The way to respond is to train and play football,” he said.
He urged his team mates to keep their heads up and promised fans they would get it right soon.
“We are a team of champions, winners. Our commitment to the rest of the team is infinite. We have won many titles up to the last few months and this is a situation that Madrid, and the players it has, are able to change. We’re going after every title,” Casillas stated.
