"Isco's starting place non-negotiable", says Ancelotti

Posted Sunday, March 01, 2015 by Marca.com

Carlo Ancelotti has described Isco's place in his starting XI as non-negotiable if he continues his current run of form. "If he keeps playing like he has been, his place is non-negotiable", he told a press conference.

Isco started the season on the bench, but right now he is first-choice at Real Madrid and Ancelotti has even ruled out benching him when Luka Modric, James Rodriguez and Sami Khedira return from injury. "He's played well in every position. I think we should use him more going forward than in defence, although the key to his current run of form has been his defensive attitude" the Italian highlighted.

On another note, Ancelotti confirmed that Modric "is almost ready" to make a come-back. The Croat has been out injured since last November, but the Real boss has hinted that he plans to give him some playing time during their champions League last sixteen return leg against Schalke 04 on 10th March. "We're physically fit and ready going into the business end of the season", said Ancelotti.

La Liga leaders, Real Madrid have a tough game this Sunday, and Ancelotti was full of praise for their opponents, Villarreal. "They're a quality, well-organised team and they play good football. They beat Atletico and put in a good performance against Barcelona. They're a very good side", he warned.