Real Madrid

Can you feel the Clasico creeping up?
We all know how important it is, but we are a mature team. Right now all we are thinking about is tomorrow's game. Then we have to play Zurich. Only after these two matches will we think about Barcelona.

What situation does Raul find himself in now? You first said he was an all-time starter but he has only started one of the last five matches.
I had my reasons for saying that; his attitude, his level of play... You are trying to retire a player who is performing at the top of his game.He is fit, but the team has performed well recently. I don't take back what I said.

Do you feel like you owe the fans?
After what took place againt Alcorcon, we feel completely indebted. It wasn't the image we have projected all season. It is all the bad moments of matches that are looked at under the microscope. Take the derby for example. We dominated the game until our player was sent off. We average more than three goals per match, so I don't think the Bernabeu is disappointed. We are looking to be more consistent.

What is Van Nistelrooy's status?
Ruud is a very important player. We wanted to give him playing time but he suffered another muscle injury. It isn't easy for a 33-year old to not play so infrequently, but he important to us and we cannot lose him..

Don't you think that Real Madrid have yet to play an all-around good match?
Depends on what we are thinking. We have played important matches. It is hard to completely do away with opponents of the category that we play against during 90 minutes of play. Victories and goals back up what we are doing here, and I consider the team to be doing well in La Liga and the Champions League.

Is Albiol fit to play?
He is on the list and we will see if he is fit to play or whether we should not push it.

Did Cristiano train with the group today?
Cristiano did participate. I don't know when he will be called up. I depends on his progress and how he feels. It's just a matter of time.