Casillas: I would love a return to La Liga

LaLiga have presented their first icon, Iker Casillas who will add to the already prestigious range of ambassadors for the Spanish game, and the goalkeeper has indicated he would love a return to the league in the future.

In the heart of Madrid, the Porto man was warmed received as he looked back on some memorable moments in his career with Spain and, of course, Real Madrid.

"I am blushing at having to receive so much praise," Casillas told those in attendance. "It implies a lot of responsibility to have your name linked to such an important brand.

"I want to thank [Javier] Tebas, for helping make this link. I have an added responsibility in representing so many people.

"I was lucky to compete in LaLiga, and unfortunately I am not there at the moment.

"What I did with Madrid will be difficult to relive, and to repeat those successes would be very complicated.

"I would love to return to LaLiga. My Real Madrid and Spain careers are in the past."

He was also asked about his favourite save, and mentioned a moment against Italy which he feels changed Spanish football.

"Many remember my save against Perotti," Casillas went on. "If I have to choose a specific moment it would be the penalty shootout against Italy [in Euro 2008], as that where the block Spanish football has was broken."

On receiving his first call up to the Spanish national team, former teammate Fernando Morientes believes was the key to Casillas' career with La Furia Roja.

"Iker owes a lot to me," Morientes said. "I injured the goalkeeper Canizares in training before going to Norway, and that's why he [Casillas] was drafted in. He owes me that call up."

Casillas helped to launch a team of LaLiga Icons, which includes players still active which will collaborate with the organisation in order to help Spanish football grow. Next up, Andrea Iniesta.