DJALMINHA AFFIRMS DESIRE TO STAY

After a number of rumours linking him with a move away from Spain, with France appearing to be the most likely destination, the Brazilian star has sought solace in an interview with Lance.

He said: "If I were a fan I would go to the stadium to watch me.

"If I hadn't been a football player I would have been a Maths teacher, not very boring but strict."

Djalminha has a proud heritage of football, having played for the same team as Rivelino, Edu and Garrincha and three of Brazil's top teams in Palmeiras, Flamengo and Guarani, yet it was his father Djalma Santos that provided him with the focus and talent to start his career.

Speaking about Rivaldo, Djalminha said: "He (Rivaldo) also plays badly for Barcelona (as well as Brazil).  The thing is that he has games to recover and have better performances.  The games are more often.  For the national squad the thing is more complicated.  If you don't do well once, you are told off until the next match arrives."

Allegations about his personal life were countered, with Djalminha stating: "It's something curious, but currently I am a married guy, I like to spend time at home and I have three children.

"I only have a beer, because the Spanish wine is not very good.  What is the problem?  I don't think my fame is as bad as it's said.  Headlines are created.  I can't do anything.  But I know that my good attitude speaks louder."

The Depor star concluded that he will stay with the Spanish club for the next three years and that the World Cup was his dream.