Valencia vs Real Madrid: Gary Neville reveals he wants to stay on as boss

Former Manchester United defender says he hopes to impress enough to earn longer deal in Spain

Valencia head coach Gary Neville (Getty Images)

Valencia manager Gary Neville has admitted publically for the first time that he wishes to stay on at the Mestalla beyond this campaign.

The 40-year-old is contracted until the end of the season after replacing Nuno Espírito Santo in December but remains winless after the 2-2 draw with Real Madrid last night.

Neville had to clarify earlier comments at full-time that appeared to suggest he doesn’t foresee a long-term future in management, claiming the statements were misinterpreted.

“I was talking about 15-20 years’ time when I talked about [giving up] management,” he said.

“I actually felt tonight, really good out there watching that game. Even when they scored for 2-1 I felt frustrated but I felt good.

"The comforting thing is we look fitter and stronger - we’re passing it better and we look more compact in defence so there are things that I’m seeing that I believe in.

Gary Neville is still without a win as Valencia coach (EPA)

“I don’t want to be a coach just for six months… I absolutely hope I’m here beyond six months but I need to prove myself.”

Neville watched on from the sidelines as his new side secured a point against Madrid after Alcácer García’s late equaliser cancelled out earlier efforts by Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale.

Daniel Parejo scored the home side’s other goal on the stroke of half-time.

“Some things I’ve seen tonight from Valencia players are of a really high level. And these are young guys. Tonight there were a lot of good things over a sustained period of time and it’s a much better performance level.

“I think we saw goals, chances created, confidence, belief, passing the ball, all the things I’d want to see. They are young but the best thing about being here is that they’re all young.”