Milito wants Barca stay

Defender Gabriel Milito is intent on staying at La Liga club Barcelona, despite being linked with a move away from the club.

The Argentina international has struggled to make an impact at Barcelona since his move in 2007 from league rivals Real Zaragoza, with an ACL knee injury one of several fitness setbacks during his time at the club.

Milito, 30, has made just six appearances for Barca in all competitions this season and has reportedly been targeted by clubs in the English Premier League and Italy’s Serie A.

But, after careful consideration, Milito has announced his intention of staying at the La Liga powerhouse.

“I have had a few days to make a decision, to take stock of the situation, when I haven’t been playing through injury,” he said.

“But I’ve realised that now is not the time to leave the club.”

“I enjoy the day-to-day atmosphere at the club, I like my teammates, I like watching the team when I can’t participate.”

“I think that the best thing for me is to stay, to continue, and to respond when it is my turn to play.”

“I’m set on staying and am keen to play. I want to help the team to take points, and that is one of the reasons behind me staying. There are different situations, but I feel differently now.”