SILVESTRE SAYS HE'S BEEN A SCAPEGOAT

Last updated : 05 February 2006 By Ed

"I had an opportunity to go to Lyon which I refused.

"I spoke to Gerard Houllier but I am cup-tied for the Champions League and we both know he is not going to play one person in the league and another in Europe.

"I wasn't going to have much opportunity, so I knew it wasn't a good move. Manchester United is still my priority and I am ready to work twice as hard to prove I can still play for the club."

"I can understand the speculation. (about being moved out)

"It is normal when you sign two defenders. You do not buy players to put them on the bench and you need room for them in the team.

"But I have to accept the challenge and I will work hard until the end of the season and do my best when the manager needs me.

"I became a scapegoat at times for poor performances but the only person I listen to is the manager. I know I have struggled at times to concentrate but that is something I will never stop working on.

"I know the boss is fair and if I can come back to my best then I have a chance to play again.

"I have a challenge to prove I belong here and to prove my future is here.

"The new players have to prove they can cope with the pressure of playing for United and I have to cope with the fact there is more competition.

"It means you focus on the right things and work twice as hard to show you are still capable of playing. Walking away would have been the easy option but the transfer window is not the best time to leave.

"I want to prove to myself that I can still play here and bring something to the team — that is the best challenge for me."