Samuel ready for Real burden

Summer signing Walter Samuel says that he is not feeling the pressure of being hailed as the answer to Real Madrid's defensive problems.

Real came unstuck last season mainly due to their defensive frailties, and they had a bitterly disappointing campaign considering the talent at their disposal.

Despite having Ronaldo, Raul, Zinedine Zidane, Luis Figo and David Beckham in the squad, the lack of defensive strength cost them dear.

New coach Jose Antonio Camacho may do better this term with the addition of Argentinian stopper Samuel, who has come in from Roma.

The South American has been hailed as the answer to all of Real's previous defensive woes, but he is staying calm.

"The team did not have the luck to win titles last season but it was not all down to the problems in defence," said Samuel.

"They have won things in previous years without signing a defender. For now, I do not feel the pressure.

"I am tranquil."

Samuel is a fierce competitor on the field, but is a shy character away from the pitch - and he says he has the confidence to marshal Real's back-line.

"I am quit timid, more so in front of you (the journalists).

"But when I get on the pitch to play, I can organise the defence throughout the team and that is important."