Ruud Van Nistelrooy signed with Real Madrid just in time to join the team in Austria for pre-season training. Since then, the Dutch international has been a role model of hard work and dedication. Van Nistelrooy told Realmadrid.com that he is happy in Madrid, he's settling into the team, that he wants to be successful at Real Madrid, and, most importantly, score many goals.

In tonight's match for the Santiago Bernabéu Trophy, Van Nistelrooy could get his first opportunity to dedicate one of his trademark goals to a crowd that loves him.

How would you assess the pre-season matches?
We played several matches one after the next, we trained hard, and, then we had two matches in two days. It was very hard on our bodies, and we noticed it at game time. But, I also think we played some good football and gained some rhythm.

The last pitstop before the League starts is the Bernabéu Trophy.
We can't wait for the match and to be in front of the Bernabéu crowd. We're also looking forward to the League, but this match will be special. I will put forth my best effort, not just in this match, but in all of them. It's what I have always done. The results may vary, but my work ethic is constant. The Bernabéu is a very special place. Being in the center of Madrid is a little odd. It's a great place to showcase my game and I hope to score in every match I play there. Let's hope I get off to a good start against Anderlecht.

You really want to triumph with this Club.
I will put my heart and sould into every match that I play. Obviously, being successful is important. And, yes, triumphing here is my main goal.

What about Holland? Have you answered the critics there?
"I think I made my mark in that play-off game. I really don't mean that in an arrogant way. I am only pointing out that in a tactical way, they should use my qualities as a striker. It was the first time the team really played for me against Scotland and look what happened. In that game I exploded emotionally and technically. "In that match for Holland I asked for a big responsibility, I got it and I dealt with it. I played well, I scored goals and the team qualified for the Euro 2004 finals. It was a big night and an important moment for Holland."

"I want to improve and perfect my game day by day."

Winning the League is one of Real Madrid's objectives this year, and you already faced Villarreal for the Carranza Trophy.
Villarreal is a good team with players like Nihat and Forlán. They are great players and strong attackers. They will have a competitive team. They proved what they are capable of in Europe last year. What's clear is that the Spanish League is very strong, the best. Every match will be hard, starting from our first against Villarreal.

You're obsessed with scoring.
I've been a professional for 13 years. I'm a natural forward, whether here or there. All I want are goals. When I take the pitch, all I think about is my game, my responsibilities, and scoring. There are fantastic, very techincal players here to play with. It's a good looking, complete team. All the players are great, and that just benefits the work of a forward.

What message do you have for Real Madrid fans?
I want to improve and perfect my game day by day. I want Madridistas to know that I will work hard to accomplish my goals, and that I will do everything I can for the Club, the team, and the fans. That's how we'll be successful.