Real Madrid

Manuel Pellegrini was happy with the victory against Espanyol.

"We played very well in the first half and we had many chances to score, but Kameni did three or four saves. Espanyol never give up or fall apart. We generated less ball movement in the second half, but we still had a couple of chances on goal and we managed to score."

"Higuain has never left the starting lineup. He left it only because of an injury and he's made his comeback this week. Guti has had some physical problems and we decided he shouldn't play the entire match."

"The team has responded well to everything we've tried since the season started. We won 6-0 against Zaragoza with a different midfield. Lass also played well and so did Granero, who is having a good run. We want as many players as possible to be in top form in the crucial months of March and April."

"This is my sixth season in Spain and I have never complained about referees. Neither has Real Madrid. We've all said Barcelona are leaders because they deserve to be. We just concentrate on playing."

"Kaka had a difficult month and a half and tonight he made important passes and assists. He will gradually reach optimum form again. He is still a very important player. I'm sure we'll soon see him at his best."

"We don't look at what Barcelona do. The only thing that matters to us is what we do and that we keep up the good work."