Real Madrid boss Santiago Solari has defended his policy of playing the club's young players since his appointment in October 2018.
The former Argentine international has introduced Sergio Reguilon and Federico Valverde into the first team in recent months, but he was questioned over decision to substitute Toni Kroos during their 1-0 El Clasico defeat, for Valverde.
However he has reiterated his faith in young players, as Real Madrid look to recover from slipping 12 points behind their great rivals.
"Young player are pushing to play and that is how football is.
"Anyone can start or come off the bench, and with Valverde, we were looking for freshness in midfield.
"People want to see new players, and that is part of this club and its history."
Despite the defeat, and an exit from the Copa del Rey at the hands of Ernesto Valverde's side three days before, Solari insists that his side will fight on.
"There is a big gap now, but we will not be giving up.
"It is always our commitment to fight for everything, domestically and in the Champions League."
