[Pat Murphy]

David Villa Welcomes Rumours, But Flattered By Valencia

While David Villa reacted positively to the news that many of Europe's top clubs had been chasing his signature this summer, he was also flattered by Valencia's dogged determination to hold onto the young striker...

Valencia's David Villa seems set to remain at the Mestalla - thanks to his club's refusal to entertain bids for the player.

The Asturian forward, however, is not angry at this. He smiled, "For me, it's flattering that there is so much interest from other clubs.

"However, what is more flattering is that the club rejects them; instead, it wants to keep me and help Valencia continue to progress."

Speaking from the club's training camp in Holland, Villa added that this philosophy was integral to the prospects of Valencian success. He said, "Retaining the players who are key to the club [helps to build] a greater Valencia."

He also went on to praise the new signings - particularly in the defence - who will help Los Che build for next season. Villa was particularly impressed with the younger signings, including ex-Getafe centre back Alexis.

He said, "Young people have arrived with hunger and quality, and desire to become a famous player."

Villa himself is no stranger to that mentality. In his early 20s, he moved from Gijon to Zaragoza in an attempt to progress his own career. Two excellent seasons later, he arrived in Valencia and had to prove once more that he could make the step up.

Few would say that he has not succeeded.

from Goal.com

Goal.com - Valencia - David Villa Welcomes Rumours, But Flattered By Valencia