Spain

Reyes: I Want To Beat Real Madrid More Than Any Atletico Fan

The striker is looking to remove a 'thorn in his side' by getting one over on Real.

Nov 6, 2009 7:41:00 PM

Jose Reyes, Atletico de Madrid (Getty Images)

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Jose Reyes, Atletico de Madrid (Getty Images)

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José Antonio Reyes

Atletico Madrid forward Jose Antonio Reyes insists he wants to beat Real Madrid more than any of the Atleti fans when the two sides meet in the city derby at the Vicente Calderon on Saturday.

Reyes spent the 2006/07 season on loan at Real from Arsenal and has so far failed to win over Los Colchoneros fans since joining them the following season.

He has revealed that he has "a thorn in his side" about his time at the Bernabeu and says that their is "nothing better than the Atletico shirt to get it out" and added that scoring against Real would be "the most beautiful goal".

The 26-year-old admitted he struggled to cope with the cold reception from the Atleti fans but says a recent shift in attitude has given him confidence and added that the change of coach at Atleti has given him a new lifeline.

"I struggled, especially my family, but the other day everyone was standing and applauding, and that to me and any player gives you some confidence," he remarked.

"Abel [Resino] damaged me. Quique [Flores] has given us great confidence, not only me but any player. Abel did not talk to any player, only the usual two."

Paul Madden, Goal.com

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