The 31-year-old sustained a fractured hand in Madrid's 1-1 Copa del Rey draw against Valencia in January and has been out of action ever since. 

Casillas was given the go-ahead by Madrid's medical staff earlier this month, but manager Jose Mourinho has chosen to stick with the ex-Sevilla and Villarreal man.

 

However, Casillas is more than willing to fight for his place and is desperate to return to the first team.

 

"I'm not giving up for a moment. That's good for Diego Lopez too. I keep pushing and it keeps him on his toes. He's put in some really good performances and helped get the team where it is," Casillas said.

 

"I am ready to play. I'm available for the coach and to help the team. The one who decides is someone else, though, not me.

 

"Now I have to wait for my chance and make the most of it when it comes. After three months without playing I have the keenness of a child."

 

Casillas could make his comeback at the weekend as Real Madrid take on city-rivals Atletico on Saturday.