Real Madrid

Rafael van der Vaart told the media he is happy and feels important on the team.

"I'm always happy, even when I don't play. I think the team played well on Sunday and that I did too. It was the second time I played a whole match, which made me very happy. Before the season started I said I wanted to be important on this team and I feel I am. I want to win the league title."

"I want to remain here because I am very happy. I feel great. I have great respect for Kaka. He is a great player, but I am not afraid of not playing when he returns."

"I believe Nivaldo's tackle on Ronaldo should have resulted in a red card, but the referee didn't see it. These things happen. I was very close and saw how his boot hit Cristiano's leg. I'm glad he isn't injured. He could have been seriously hurt."