Ancelotti: Hernandez is important

Javier Hernandez can play a key role for Real Madrid for the rest of the season, according to manager Carlo Ancelotti.

The Real Madrid boss was full of praise for the on-loan striker ahead of Los Blancos' game with Celta Vigo following his late winning goal in the Champions League quarter-final against rivals Atletico.

Injuries to Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale handed Hernandez a rare opportunity from the start and Ancelotti was pleased with the way he dealt with the occasion.

"What has happened with Chicharito is an example for a lot of players that have played little," he told a news conference.

"Due to his hard work and professionalism he was ready at the right moment. We now need to take advantage of his good form and he will be an important player for us."

With Bale, Benzema and midfielder Luka Modric all still sidelined, Hernandez is set to continue up front at Celta Vigo on Sunday.

However, Ancelotti gave nothing away when asked whether the Spanish giants would be taking up their option of signing the Mexican forward on a permanent basis in the summer.

"The situation is clear and we will talk at the end of the season," the Italian said.