Raul: I Am Just Like Any Other Player At Real Madrid

Raul has revealed that he feels like any other player in the Real Madrid squad and must impress Manuel Pellegrini in training in order to regain his place for 'El Derbi Madrileno' this weekend.

Los Merengues' captain has not started in the team's last two matches but he does not think that he should have any special rights and is working hard to return to the first XI.

Madrid take on arch rivals and Raul's former youth club, Atletico Madrid at the weekend and he is hopeful of being able to face them from the start.

"I am just another player on this squad. I have to work. I can't complain about the season I've had so far," he was quoted as saying by the club's official website.

"I believe the team as a whole is what really matters and we have improved of late. We must focus on our games against Atletico and Alcorcon.

"The team responded well in the last two matches, but one must always be ready and be in optimum form in order to make good use of any chances one may get.

"It's a matter of circumstances. One must always be ready. All my team-mates are doing a great job and I wish to play, but it's up to the coach to decide."

The arrival of Quique Sanchez Flores has lifted Atleti and Raul thinks that the game will be as hard as always.

"It is always complicated to play at the [Vicente] Calderon. Atletico have improved under their new coach," he continued.

"They deserved to win against Chelsea and they are more confident now despite their Champions League elimination.

"A match against Atletico is always difficult, especially at the Calderon. We know it is a big game."

Lucas Brown, Goal.com