Belgium's Courtois: Mignolet has to be humble and respectful regarding World Cup spot

Thibaut Courtois

Atletico Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has retaliated to Liverpool shot stopper Simon Mignolet’s claim that he wants to Belgium’s number one at this year’s World Cup, according to The Express.

The 21 year-old, who is on loan at the La Liga side from Chelsea, has been favoured by international coach Marc Wilmots of late, due to his impressive performances for Atelti.

But the youngster was not impressed by Mignolet’s recent comments that he is attempting to sneak ahead of his rival before this summer’s show piece event in Brazil, claiming he is the undisputed first choice and his countryman could learn a lesson from Spain’s goalkeeping contingent.

“In Spain, I hear no goalkeeper saying they’re aiming for the place of Casillas. Not De Gea, not Valdes, not Reina. It’s the opposite – they back Casillas.

“Simon can say whatever he wants, but I think I’ve already saved enough points for Belgium and I’m playing good games for Atletico. He has to stay humble and respectful,” he declared.

However, Courtois has come across as somewhat arrogant, given that 25 year-old Mignolet is more than entitled to strive towards the number one jersey. Competition is positive for goalkeepers but Courtois seems to be resting on his laurels very early in his career, despite keepers having just 14 caps apiece, so he is not an automatic choice just yet.