Real Madrid defender Jonathan Woodgate has denied reports that he wanted to leave the club in the summer.

“I owe Real a lot for standing by me and in return want to come back as a first team player next year,” Woodgate told sports daily AS.

The 26-year-old is having treatment at former club Leeds United in a bid to recover from a persistent thigh injury that has hampered him since he moved to Real two years ago.

He played only nine league games last season following his return from an 18-month lay-off.

“I still want to succeed at Real and am going to work hard to make that happen,” he added.

“I am expecting a tough summer but it will all be worth it in the end.”