Gonzalo Castro: 'I can replace Antoine Griezmann'

Gonzalo Castro is confident that he can fill the void left by Antoine Griezmann at Real Sociedad.

Griezmann completed a big-money move to Atletico last month, but Castro has vowed to take on the mantle at La Real.

"La Real are lucky to have had for years one of the best wingers in the League in Antoine," Castro told Mundo Deportivo.

"I was fighting for the position but I knew I had to compete with a great rival. It's true you're not happy when you're not getting minutes but I'm grateful for having been forced to fight the best for a place.

"This year I have no great rival like Antoine but I don't know if I'll have many or few opportunities, but I'll have the advantage. Of course it's motivation for me. Hopefully I get my chance. It's essential I go out and have good games and help get results."

Castro joined Sociedad from Mallorca in 2012.