© Reuters 2002

MANCHESTER, England, Sept 27 (Reuters) - Manchester United goalkeeper Ricardo Lopez is confident of regaining his place in the Spain squad despite a lack of first team opportunities so far at his new club.

The 31-year-old was recently dropped from the international picture, despite earning a place in Spain's 2002 World Cup squad, after agreeing to move to Old Trafford to compete with Northern Ireland's Roy Carroll as back-up for French number one Fabien Barthez.

"I am not now figuring in the national squad at the moment, but I believe being at Manchester United is going to help me with the Spanish FA," he told MUTV.

"It's not an easy thing of course, the best thing I can bring to do that is an element of hard work, not only in training. I am experienced in having a period of non-selection, and it's not a rush to get back that national status that will come in time."

The Spaniard admitted he may have to spend time in the background at United, but is prepared to wait his turn.

"When the door to Manchester United is open for you, you have to go through it," he added. "It's an opportunity that comes along just once in your life. The idea of working to be the number one goalkeeper here is something I am willing to do.

"It took my one and half years at Real Valladolid to be number one and to stay that way. I intend to do the same thing here. It will be a struggle but a struggle I am willing to take on."

Ricardo's only United appearance since his 1.5 million-pound ($2.33 million) move came as a substitute in a 5-2 Champions League win over Maccabi Haifa, and his willingness to play football was reminiscent of Barthez.

"This thing about playing outside of the area is something I started with Atletico Madrid," he said. "I have always enjoyed the opportunity to go out there and support your team mates.

"I like to make a pass and start a move going, pass it out to the wingers to midfielders. The modern keeper shouldn't limit himself to playing inside the 18-yard box." ($1=.6432 Pound).