Mourinho sticks with Cristiano

Cristiano is clearly fundamental to Real Madrid. Mourinho has no doubts on the matter either in spite of their recent disagreement. It seems their falling out following the Cup game against Valencia is all water under the bridge. The Portuguese coach has no intention of leaving his star player out of the team. Were he to do so, it would only be to rest him in preperation for the second leg of the Cup match on Wednesday, which is what really matters right now.

But Mou knows full well that Cristiano doesn't like to be left out, even for friendlies. He hardly misses a game or suffers an injury due to his formidable physique and fitness. He's a born winner and has every intention of stepping onto the pitch in 'Mestalla' this Sunday. What's more, Cristiano has already been rested recently, having missed the game against Osasuna through suspension.

Mou has only left Cristiano on the bench once before, due to a tactical decision. This happened after CR7 questioned Real Madrid's style of play following the team's elimination from the Champions League at the hands of Barça: "I don't like playing that way, but I have to get used to it." The coach's response was to leave him on the bench for the next game against Zaragoza.

Mourinho has admired Cristiano's attitude. He knows he is a key player and wants him to be on top form in preparation for what awaits in the Cup and the Champions League.