Montag, 3. Juni 2013

Del Bosque überrascht von Casillas Axing

Vicente del Bosque has spoken of his disbelief at the omission of Iker Casillas from Jose Mourinho's Real Madrid side last season. Spain coach Del Bosque praised the goalkeeper's attitude during his time working with the 32-year-old, who made just 19 Liga appearances in 2012/13 and was left out of the squad completely for Real's final game of the campaign against Osasuna. Mourinho, who has since left to manage Chelsea, opted to select Diego Lopez ahead of captain Casillas, with many interrupting the axing of the stalwart club as a consequence of personal problems between player and coach. "I find it hard to believe that Iker dropped out of the squad," Del Bosque told reporters. "It's hard to believe because I've known him for many years and his career has always been impeccable." Del Bosque has not spoken to Casillas about his lack of playing time and insisted it was a matter for Madrid to deal with internally. "I have not had the chance to speak to him since the game we played in France, but while it's none of my business and an internal matter for the club I have no reason to believe it is true," he said, referring to rumours of a player revolt against Mourinho led by Casillas and vice-captain Sergio Ramos. Casillas has been named in Spain's squad for their friendlies against Haiti and the Republic of Ireland, as well as the Confederations Cup later this month.