Indomitable Lions midfielder Geri Njitap, whose reported Chelsea move fell through last month, has revealed why Real Madrid are keen to keep him.
Speaking about the deal for the first time on his website, the player who led the Lions to their first Olympic gold medal triumph last year in Sydney said: "Chelsea coach Claudio Ranieri worked hard to seal the deal, but Real could not find a replacement for me because I happen to be the only versatile player at the club.
"I had been playing in the midfield as well as centre back and the coach Del Bosque insisted it would be suicidal to let me go at the moment. I am happy Real have such a confidence in me."
Njitap believes he has his place in the star studded Real side which is set to lock horns in a friendly with Inter Milan: "Everybody knows
that with the arrival of Zinedine Zidane and Luis Figo and Claude Makelele in sparkling form, Real`s midfield will be tight. But I believe I have a place in the squad and my versatility is a major advantage.
"I could play anywhere and am happy with my performance so far as we prepare for a very tough season," he said.
He has however not ruled out a move to England next season if officials of Chelsea continue to show interest in him.
"I would have finished my third season in Real next year and after the World Cup, who knows, I may make a move and England would be the best place to go. Chelsea, whose coach told me he wanted me as part of his new team, impressed me. If he is still keen next year, maybe. But for now I want to win another Champions League medal with Real."
