Ancelotti: Isco is non-negotiable

Carlo Ancelotti has claimed that Isco’s place in the Real Madrid line-up is ‘non-negotiable’ ahead of Sunday’s encounter with Villarreal in La Liga.

The attacking midfielder has flourished as a deep-lying player in Luka Modric’s absence, and the Coach admits the young Spaniard has given him a selection dilemma, with the former Tottenham star close to returning from a long injury layoff.

“[Luka Modric] is not in the squad. He’s almost ready but still needs work. I’ll consider him for the match against Schalke,” he said at a Press conference.

“[Sergio] Ramos and Modric both return at the most important point of the season. The squad is in good physical condition.

“[Gareth Bale] has shown a very good attitude, fighting, winning and sacrificing himself for the team.

“He gave a very important performance last week and will continue in the manner that I need him, with a positive attitude.

“It’s hard to say what position is best for [Isco] because he’s done well in any position.

“He has a defensive attitude and good positioning, but we have to use his attacking characteristics more than his defensive ones.

“[Isco’s] presence in the team is non-negotiable, if he continues to play well.

“For us, [Toni] Kroos is very important in his current position. It’d be difficult if we replaced him with a player who wasn’t used to our style.

“Lucas is an extraordinary playmaker and both accurate and quick in his passing.

“[Marcelo’s] found consistency and improved defensively. His confidence has helped the team a lot.”

Tags Carlo Ancelotti Gareth Bale Isco Lucas Silva Luka Modric Marcelo Sergio Ramos Toni Kroos
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