The Dutchman was strongly linked with a move out of Madrid since last season and the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka further stirred the speculation.

But the 27-year-old seems to be happy at his backup role with Manuel Pellegrini's side, amid reported interest from Liverpool and Valencia.

"I have the skill and quality to play for Real Madrid. I am very happy in this team," Van der Vaart told Radio Marca.

"Pellegrini told me in pre-season training that I was a very good player, but he did not have much room for me because they had Kaka, Raul, many players.

"I said OK, but I will not leave Madrid, I want to fight, so let's see.

"The league is very important but also the Champions League. The final is in Madrid. It is a dream for everyone to play the final here, but we also want to win the league."