Real Madrid and Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas has said his club rival for the number 1 shirt, Diego Lopez, deserves to continue in the starting 11 when Carlo Ancelotti picks his team for the first time.
The 32-year-old stopper, who helped lead Spain to their first ever World Cup success in 2010, was consigned to the bench for much of last season.
Initially he picked up a hand injury, but when he was fully fit again, former manager Jose Mourinho decided to stick with Lopez. As the months wore on, stories emerged about a total breakdown in the relationship between Casillas and his manager.
Casillas has managed to maintain the number 1 shirt for his national side and should start in goal for Spain in the Confederations Cup final against Brazil.
Speaking to Radio Marca, he said Lopez deserved to continue in goal for Los Blancos because of his outstanding form.
He stated: “Diego Lopez is a fantastic person and a great goalkeeper.
“He was superb and he deserves to continue playing. He had a brilliant season. I never wanted problems. I have learned how to show patience ever since I was a child, I know that I have to wait and try to win my place in the side.”
