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Dudek ties up Real switch

20/07/2007

Jerzy Dudek has completed his move from Liverpool to Real Madrid.

The goalkeeper has signed a two-year deal with the Spanish champions having been released by the Reds.

Dudek, 34, passed a medical at the Bernabeu today and will be back up to first choice keeper Iker Casillas.

The Polish international made just two Premiership appearances for the Reds last season after losing his place to Jose Reina in 2005.

Dudek admitted he is surprised to be signing for the European giants after a frustrating time on the bench at Anfield.

"In the end I decided to come here because I thought they may need an experienced goalkeeper like myself and someone to be competitive with Iker Casillas," Dudek said.

"To be honest, it was a very easy decision to make because all the Spanish friends I made in Liverpool told me I couldn't refuse joining Real Madrid. I was very happy with the fact that people here wanted me.

"I know this is a difficult situation for me having to compete with such a good goalkeeper as Iker Casillas, but everyone has their own ambitions.

"I'll just try to help the team at first by always giving 100 per cent. I've always been very professional and I have deep respect for Iker."

Dudek made 127 Premiership appearances for Liverpool after signing from Feyenoord in 2001 for £4.85 million.

He will be remembered for his heroics in the penalty shootout in the Reds' win over AC Milan in the 2005 Champions League final.

But despite his performance against Milan Reds boss Rafael Benitez signed Spanish international Reina, who became number one choice.

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