Manchester United goalkeeper Radek Vitek has confirmed his desire to leave Old Trafford in search of regular first-team football. The 22-year-old Czech Republic youth international, who impressed on loan at Bristol City last season, sweeping their end-of-year awards, stated he is ready for a move, whether permanent or on loan.
Vitek's statement on his future
After playing the second half of Manchester United's first pre-season friendly, a 1-0 defeat to Wrexham in Helsinki, Vitek told reporters: 'I feel great and ready to go again somewhere to be, hopefully, number one, so we will see. We will see what is going to happen.' He added: 'At the moment, I am still here, but we will see. I hope so. I hope there will be some interest. I think you will know when things are more concrete.'
Permanent or loan move
When asked if he would be happy to leave permanently rather than on loan again, Vitek replied: 'I am ready for both, to be fair. Depends what the club wants and also depends on the options. We will see. There have been a few interests on the table. But we hope to get the best one and hopefully it will happen soon.'
Interested clubs
According to reports, Hull City and Ipswich Town, both promoted to the Premier League last season, are among the clubs interested in Vitek. He emphasized his ambition: 'My mind is still the same. I want to play. I want to play every week and that is the goal for next season. I think hopefully I will find out soon where that is going to be. I think I grew over the past two-and-a-half years when I went on a few loans. I grew in a person-wise, on the pitch as well.'
Gratitude to teammates and coaches
Vitek also expressed gratitude for the guidance of 40-year-old teammate Tom Heaton and goalkeeping coach Craig Mawson. 'I have been working here with Craig nearly six years now. And obviously with Tom as well, quite a long time. They have been massively important. Also this pre-season, it helps me a lot. I can work with them and hopefully get myself ready as best as possible.'
