José Miguel Prieto

José Miguel Prieto Castillo (born 22 November 1971) is a Spanish retired footballer who played as a central defender.

Nicknamed Shark due to his fierce character, he appeared in 282 competitive games for Sevilla in a 14-year professional career.

Club career

Born in Albacete, Castilla–La Mancha, Prieto began playing as a senior with local Albacete Balompié, in the Segunda División B. In the summer of 1989 the 17-year-old signed for Sevilla FC, being assigned to the reserve side who competed in the same level.

Prieto made his La Liga debut on 21 January 1990, playing the full 90 minutes in a 2–1 away win against CD Tenerife. He totalled just 16 first-team appearances in his first two full seasons, however.

Prieto scored his only top-flight goal on 9 April 1994, the only at Sporting de Gijón. From 1996 to 2001 he experienced two promotions and as many relegations with his main club, partnering mainly Juan Martagón in the center of the defence.

Prieto retired in June 2003 at the age of 31, after several knee problems.

International career

Prieto earned 32 caps for Spain at youth level, including 14 for the under-21 team. He was sent off on his debut on 14 January 1992, a 0–0 friendly draw in Portugal.