Ancelotti: "We're not afraid of Atlético"

DESPITE REAL'S 5-GAME WINLESS STREAK IN DERBY

Carlo Ancelotti claimed that the Real Madrid squad aren't going into the derby with trepidation despite their poor results against Atlético this season. He also voiced his optimism that Marcelo's ban could be overturned, while backing Fábio Coentrão or Álvaro Arbeloa to do a job if the suspension stands.

Real's five-game winless run against Atlético: "We haven't delivered in the recent matches against Atlético and that only spurs us on further. It's a derby and it's eagerly anticipated. We're preparing for it properly, we're confident and I'm convinced we'll perform well and it'll be a good game. We're not afraid".

The Marcelo situation: "He's in the squad because we're confident that the yellow card could be rescinded. Still, we can use both Coentrão and Arbeloa on the left side of defence, so we won't have any trouble replacing Marcelo if the booking isn't chalked off".

Casillas: "Iker always offers guarantees. He's talented and experienced, and that hasn't changed. He's on a good run of form, has done a great job and offers us guarantees at the back".

Illarra or Khedira: "I haven't decided yet who's going to start in central midfield. There won't be many changes. I think Khedira is more active at both ends of the pitch whilst Illarra is more defensive."

Isco: "If I compare him to the player he was at the beginning of the season, he's improved a lot. He's fully aware of what he's achieved. He works much harder, especially in defence. He plays for the team...".

Cristiano Ronaldo: "He's in great shape, as motivated as ever."

Atlético's aggressive reputation: "We see them as a well-organised side, one of the best teams in the world in terms of its defensive game. Therefore, we have to find a way to put them off their game".

Stopping Mandzukic: "It's true that we may struggle in the air against Atlético. just as we did against Sevilla, who were better than us in that aspect of the game. We have taller players capable of helping out our shorter lads".

Winning the game: "As is always the case in this type of game, you have to remain fully focussed, avoid conceding goals and do whatever you have to in order to play your game. We're going to have to use every single skill we have. Speed and possession play are going to be crucial".

Would you settle for a draw?: "That's the sort of thing you talk about after a game. Our aim is to win the game, as it always is".