Real Madrid coach Mourinho praises Ramos

Madrid, Sep 30 (IANS): Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho praised central defender Sergio Ramos while at the same time handing him a warning that he needs to be at his best in order to play.

Ramos was left on the bench for Madrid’s 3-2 Champions League win over Manchester City two weeks ago prompting questions to be raised over his relation with the coach, reports Xinhua.

He was back in the side for the 2-0 win in Vallecas last Monday, but with youngster Rafael Varene waiting in the wings, it now looks as if Ramos can no longer take his place for granted.

“When Sergio is at his best, he gives me all that a defender has to give: security in defense, quality bringing the ball out, strength and set pieces, leadership. When he is in shape, he is one of the best,” said Mourinho, who also talked about midfielder Mesut Ozil, who has been in slightly poor form in the start to the season.

“He is working to improve. We have a good squad with a lot of quality players in midfield, but he is a quality player, whose coach admires him. The most normal thing is for him to get to his best level,” he said.