Carlo Ancelotti hails Toni Kroos performance

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has hailed Toni Kroos’ performance following the 5-1 win over Rayo Vallencano on Saturday.

The win, the side’s 13th on the bounce in all competitions, ensured the Champions League holders remain top of La Liga. They have scored a remarkable 52 goals in their last 13 games and look unstoppable at the moment.

Speaking to journalists after the match, the manager said he was pleased once again with the overall performance of the team, but wanted to pick out German midfielder Kroos for his all-action display which was rewarded by a first goal for the club.

“We put in a good performance. We were up against a team that looked to play the ball. We worked hard and played well, which we’ve made a habit of in this period of the season. Kroos was man of the match today and he scored his first goal,” he stated.

And he continued: “I’m surprised by him, he is playing to a very high level. He has the freedom to go forward from time to time and, when he does, Modric covers his position. They’re a very good pairing, they play really well together. I value the defensive work the forwards put in, it’s very important. The team needs everyone to put in a shift. And Bale and Cristiano scoring is nothing new.”