New Real Madrid goalkeeper Keylor Navas has claimed Bernabeu fans who have whistled long-serving custodian Iker Casillas are being "unfaithful" to the club.
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Navas, 27, a 10 million euro summer signing from Levante, was handed his debut by Carlo Ancelotti in Los Blancos' 5-1 La Liga win at home to Elche on Tuesday, although the coach denied that he had chosen to protect 33-year-old Casillas from the barracking he has endured in recent home games.
Speaking to AS after the game, the Costa Rica international said the attitude of some supporters towards Casillas was uncalled for.
#INSERT type:image caption:Navas finally made his Real Madrid debut against Elche following his impressive World Cup. END#
"The whistles are unfair because he has had a great career at Madrid," he said. "Those who whistle Casillas are being unfaithful to Madrid. What we ask our fans to do is support us."
In his post-game news conference, Ancelotti would not say who would play in goal at Villarreal in La Liga on Saturday.
However, Navas said he hoped to keep his place while suggesting that he and Casillas did not tend to discuss such matters too closely.
"I always hope to play the next game," he said. "I try to train as if I was the No.1, so that when the chance comes I am not taken by surprise.
"The boss told me [I was starting] yesterday. I have not spoken with Iker. We have a good relationship, but there is not much to talk about when it comes to these things. I am very relaxed.
"At no time do I want to start a controversy or get on badly with anyone. I have always liked to work, to make an effort and to earn things. I am here to train well and to show the coaches I can play.
"When I get the opportunity I will give everything as if it were the last game of my life. I do not look any further than that. But I hope to have more minutes in future."
Navas could do nothing about the Edu Albacar penalty that gave Elche a surprise early lead, and was largely a spectator as Cristiano Ronaldo hit four goals in another big win for Madrid.
He added: "You must be there in case you are needed. As well as making saves, I can help communicating with my teammates. These types of games are useful to talk and to be always on guard.
"It was one of my goals to arrive here, and to play at this stadium. It is a privilege. I am happy as the team won. One more little step and we hope to stay on this path."