Real Madrid chief Pardeza admits admiration for Bilbao star Javi Martinez

Real Madrid chief Miguel Pardeza has admitted his admiration for Athletic Bilbao midfielder Javi Martinez.

Pardeza made the comments on the eve of Real's shock 1-0 defeat to Bilbao on Saturday night.

"Javi Martinez is a player I like and I find him interesting. He is also a guy who is taking responsibility and growing day by day," said Pardeza.

"But that doesn't mean we have interest in the player."