Valencia hero Santi Canizares has jumped to the defence of Ezequiel Garay after he announced he would be leaving.

Canizares has claimed that the Argentine is the victim of a smear campaign within the club.

"Disgracefully none of this is a surprise, Valencia doesn't deserve to have these people in charge," said Canizares after looking at the case of Garay.

"People appreciate it when you show your face and give your own side of the story.

"I don't doubt that [Garay] is telling the truth.

"Was it the best way to do it? Everyone does what they think is best.

"I wasn't totally happy about it, but that isn't important."