Ricardo Begs For Chance

Get a Chance?
By Chris O'Brien
January 13 2005

Forgotten goalkeeper Ricardo Lopez has begged Sir Alex Ferguson to let him prove his worth to Manchester United. The 33-year-old is very much in the shadow of Tim Howard and Roy Carroll, and has made no appearances for the Red Devils this term.

With many proclaiming a goalkeeper crisis at Old Trafford, forgotten shot stopper Ricardo is pleading with Sir Alex Ferguson to give him a chance to prove himself between the sticks. Carroll's error against Spurs has put the Ulsterman's future in doubt, whilst Tom Howard served up a run of mistake-prone displays earlier in the campaign.

Ricardo Lopez, yet to play this season, was dished out on loan to Racing Santander last term. A permanent move away from Lancashire looked likely for the Spaniard, but as it is he is still a Red Devil and has once again stated he feels he has the credentials to be first-choice 'keeper for title-chasing United.

"I think that one day I will get my chance. Tim Howard and then Roy Carroll have both been number one and I have had to wait, I need to play and so get more confidence," he said.

"I always try my best and my aim is to be the first choice, I believe that I should be the first choice in any team in the world."

There was surprise when Ricardo moved to Old Trafford after being included in the 2002 Spanish World Cup squad. Fergie paid a hefty £1,500,000 to Valladolid for his services, but he has made only 5 appearances for United and his ability to give away penalties became something of a standing joke with the Stretford End faithful.

"I have heard nothing about a new deal and if you don't play then you don't expect one. At the moment I am concentrating on United and being ready if I am called on, although I suppose part of me is wondering what will happen in the summer."

At 33 years of age, and with his contract expiring at the end of the season, Ricardo's future is likely to be back in Spain and he will surely leave at the end of the season if not before. However, with Carroll and Howard's form in question, could Madrid-born Ricardo get one opportunity to impress?