Baptista Promises More Goals And Good Form

Real Madrid renaissance man Julio Baptista has surprised many since fighting his way back into the team: now, the Brazilian forward believes that.

Julio Baptista told As of his current high spirits as he enkoys a Real Madrid renaissance.

"I'm delighted about everything that's happening to me at Real Madrid, and how things are going," beamed the Brazilian.

"I have no reason to complain. I didn't do so when I wasn't playing; I was only devoted to work. I'm feeling great."

Baptista then revealed - predictably enough - that he's delighted to have a few days off from training.

"I'm in Sao Paolo for Christmas," he continued.

"I'm here to rest, but also to enjoy myself. On the 31st I need to be back in Madrid for training, so now it's time to disconnect and recharge the batteries."

And then, in the New Year, comes the challenge of retaining top spot in the Liga.

"The most important thing is that we're still on top come the last day of the Liga," he said.

"In Barcelona [1-0 away win], my goal wasn't solely mine, but was the product of the vital work of the team."

"We need to fight in every game because our goal is to win all three competition. In the Liga, being winter champion is symbolic, but there's much more to come."

"We need to be calm and continue this way - after all, we've won nothing yet."

"Barceloina? It was a great game, just as I said after the match. I also think that my strike was one of the most beautiful goals I've scored in my career."

"To net another at the Camp Nou was nice, too. The blaugrana stadium's always been good for me. In May 2004, Brazil played a friendly with Catalonia. We won 5-2 and I scored twice, but the first one was extra-special because it was a scissor kick."

It's been quite a turnaround for Baptista. He was tipped to leave the Bernabeu in summer, but has instead ousted Guti in the first team lineup.

"My challenge was to work every day, just as I've done so far - I can promise that I'll continue on the same line and score more goals," he said of his recent renaissance.

"The coach always decides the lineup, and now it appears to be my time. I've struggled hard to achieve this since the start of the season. I've worked hard to prove that I'm worthy of Real Madrid, and now I'm going to keep on working hard and not miss out on it."