Real Madrid vs Eibar preview - Boss relieved by Ronaldo reprieve

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti expressed his relief at being able to select Cristiano Ronaldo for what he sees as a crunch clash against Eibar this weekend.

Ronaldo was set to sit on the sidelines on Saturday after collecting his fifth yellow card of the season for diving in Real's 2-0 victory at Rayo Vallecano earlier this week.

However, Real appealed the decision and the Spanish Football Federation agreed with the view that the Portuguese was fouled by Rayo defender Antonio Amaya, and the caution has now been rescinded.

"The appeal of Cristiano's yellow card was because we considered it had been an unfair card," Ancelotti told the Spanish media at his pre-match press conference.

"It's an important game, we have much respect for that opponent and therefore we have the obligation to put out the best possible line-up."

Ronaldo's inclusion is a massive boost for Real, who will definitely be without key midfield duo James Rodriguez and Toni Kroos due to suspension as they collected their fifth bookings of the season at the Campo de Futbol de Vallecas.

Luka Modric will be available, though, despite the Croatian feeling fatigue after the Rayo clash.

"He's tired because the last match was very intense," Ancelotti added. "Tomorrow will be all better. He will play."

Real beat a spirited Rayo side to remain four points behind Primera Division leaders Barcelona, thanks to Ronaldo's 300th goal for the club and Rodriguez's strike.

Ancelotti is expecting another tough encounter on Saturday, despite his side routing struggling Granada 9-1 in their last match at the Bernabeu.

"I'm not thinking about the goals, I'm only thinking about winning the match and trying to play well," he said.

"The eight matches left are difficult for all the teams. Either playing at home or away the matches will be tough."

Eibar ended an atrocious run of results when they beat Malaga on Tuesday for their first win in 12, with nine of their previous 11 matches ending in defeat.

Manager Gaizka Garitano knows they will be written off ahead of their visit to the Spanish capital but has urged his side not to give up hope completely.

"The only thing I care about is that basically there are three points," he said at his pre-match press conference.

"Our only goal is to score. I'm not stupid and I know it is very difficult but not impossible."

Garitano added: "It's an honour to go there to play. The only way to enjoy there is competing, doing well and making it difficult."