You played very well in the first half and you practically performed as a second striker in the last 45 minutes...
That's what it may have looked like, but it wasn't so. I was attacking and swapping positions with Kaka. I was closer to the goal when we attacked, but I wasn't following any specific strategy.

How much has the tactical change benefitted the team?
I think the most important thing about our game was the spirit we had. Tactics are important, but drive is paramount. The team's spirit is very good. We know we must showcase drive in order to win every game we play.

Do you feel more comfortable closer to attack?
Yes. Xabi stays in the middle and Lass on the right. Kaka and I swap positions and end up being more unpredictable.

It seems Cristiano will miss the derby. What do you think of that?
We obviously need him because he is a very important player, but there are many men on this squad who can help the team. I hope he recovers as soon as possible.

How does Guti feel these days?
I haven't spoken to him about anything personal, but he looks good and anxious to play, just like the rest of us.

Do you still feel more comfortable as a left back?
The mere fact of playing for Real Madrid is enough to make me happy. I love to play in attack, but I'd rather be a left back. Things may change in the future, but I prefer the left back position for now.
 

Raul hasn't been a starter in two games. What do you think of that?
The team has been playing well and the coach doesn't want things to change. It's no big deal and Raul understands. We all know what our captain means to us, but I think it's normal for this to happen on occasion.

Has the team's attitude changed?
We lacked focus at the start of some games. We've talked a lot about things and we've realised we won't be able to win if we don't showcase the spirit we've had in the last couple of games.

Taxes may go up for foreign players in Spain. What do you think of that?
I don't think it's that important. It isn't official yet. I'm happy here and I don't have a problem with it.

Would you prefer Olympique to win or draw in the next game?
We don't look at other teams' results. We just want to win and see what happens later.

Do you expect Atletico Madrid to play as they've done so far in La Liga or rather as they've performed in the Champions League?
It will be a difficult match, like all derbies. Atletico have great players. We must watch out.