Figo does not understand substitute role at Real

Real Madrid winger Luis Figo is still waiting for an explanation from coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo for his relegation to the substitutes' bench for the latter part of the season.

The 32-year-old former Portugal international was left out of the starting line-up for the match against Barcelona in early April and has made only substitute appearances since.

"I don't understand his change in attitude and this is what hurts most," Figo told the Spanish radio station Cadena Cope on Wednesday.

"I always train to the best of my abilities, but obviously there have been difficult moments when you don't understand things because there haven't been explanations."

"I have always given everything for the club and I hope they they will do the same with me, more than anything to tell me I am not going to play. It is the least you can ask for as a professional." The former World and European Player of the Year, who has hinted at a possible departure from Real before the end of his contract, confirmed that he would continue to fight for his place.

"If they don't tell me otherwise I will be here until 2006 because I have a contract and, despite the speculation, I will have to put up with the current situation," Figo said.

"If I did leave the team it would be to go to a club with the same prestige as Real. This is absolutely clear."

With one game left in the Primera Liga, Real Madrid are assured of second place behind champions Barcelona although they will finish their second season without a major trophy.