Friday, 23rd April 2010

Rafael van der Vaart, once an outcast in the Real Madrid squad, has proven to be a vital piece of the team this season, showing that Kaka’s injury problems would not affect the side’s performance as a unit.

The Dutch international, joined the Spanish giants in 2008 from Hamburg, but failed to make a significant impact on the side, being used primarily as a substitute as the season wore on. To add to his woes, new manager Manuel Pellegrini excluded him from the club’s plans in the summer of 2009, prompting many to feel, including the 27-year-old, that a transfer would be inevitable.

Van der Vaart continued his attempts to change his new boss’ mind when he wasn’t released however, and finally got a chance to prove his worth when Kaka experienced his initial injury problems. The Dutchman would go on to impress in the Brazilian’s absence, and has since become a regular fixture in the side. With his improved status at the club, the Dutchman claims he is no longer seeking a way out of the Santiago Bernabeu.

 

  Latest Features: