• Premier League

Isco's head not turned by Spurs talk

ESPN staff
October 9, 2012
Isco © PA Photos
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Malaga starlet Isco says he is not interested in discussing speculation linking him with a move to the Premier League.

Tottenham coach Tim Sherwood took in Malaga's 3-0 win Champions League win at Anderlecht last week, while Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini was present as Malaga lost 2-1 to Atletico Madrid at the weekend.

Isco, whose current contract has a €21 million release clause, was also reportedly the subject of an approach from Spurs during the summer. The Costa del Sol-born player has told Marca that some interest was to be expected given how well things had gone for him and his team this season, but he was concentrating on his current club.

"My head is just in Malaga," Isco said. "Malaga is in everyone's mouth as the Champions League is a showcase. Things have gone well for me so my name has been heard more."

He also praised the togetherness of a squad that has pulled together to overcome the departure of star names, including Santi Cazorla, during the summer. "There is professionalism and unity in the dressing room," he said. "That has been reflected in the good start we have had in La Liga and the Champions League."

Sunday's clash at the Estadio Vicente Calderon was seen by many in Spain as a meeting of the two clubs most likely to challenge Barcelona and Real Madrid at the league's summit. After Atletico sealed victory Malaga coach Manuel Pellegrini said both teams' "ceiling was third place" as over a full season La Liga's big two remained untouchable.

And Isco agreed, adding: "I think the same as Pellegrini. Atletico and ourselves have begun well but there are two teams superior to the rest. There is no other alternative who can fight with them."

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