"The press criticism aimed at me was strong and exaggerated a great deal," he told his Valencia's official website after several weeks of silence.

"It is obvious that it is a question of character, when the main person in the media going against me is my old team-mate Canizares.

"My opinion is that he has no courtesy. But it is not that important because I can rise above these things," the German keeper added.

Hildebrand lived in the shadow of Canizares until the latter was ousted from Valencia by former coach Ronald Koeman.

Now he has lost again his place between the sticks for the new Brazilian recruit Renan.

"Obviously I was not happy with being replaced. I am disappointed and angry," concluded Hildebrand.