Gary Neville calls for Valencia focus amid new contract speculation

The 41-year-old former Manchester United full-back has endured a tough time in Spain but the mood has changed following three consecutive victories

Gary Neville (GETTY IMAGES)

Valencia manager Gary Neville has insisted he is focused on this season amid reports suggesting the La Liga club are planning to offer him a new contract at the Mestalla.

The 41-year-old former Manchester United full-back has endured a tough time in Spain but the mood has changed following three consecutive victories and qualification from the Europa League round-of-32.

Despite the 3-0 defeat to Athletic Bilbao on Sunday evening, Neville’s position remains stable and speculation is increasing about the prospect of him staying on into the new season.

“I think we said February, March, but it has come along very quickly,” the Valencia manager said this week.

“I think we need to concentrate on the football. We have too many matches at this moment in time and I think maybe now it will be into April by the time I speak to the club.

“It's interesting - three weeks ago the mood in here was a very different mood - you weren't asking me about my contract and I don't feel it's respectful now to talk about my contract, it honestly isn't. I've got a lot more hard work to do.

“The reason why I never panicked or never felt down, when we weren't getting the perfect results was that I played at a club for 20 years that every defeat was a disaster and that's how I feel here, every defeat would be a disaster and I have the same expectations when I wear this badge.”