Real Madrid star Federico Valverde has admitted that he is working to improve his understanding of the right-back role, by learning from two members of José Mourinho’s defensive ranks.
Midfielder Valverde has for his part of course spent recent weeks taking to the pitch in a full-back role.
Not fitting into the new-look engine room setup of boss Mourinho, the Uruguayan has been tasked with making use of his talents at right-back.
This is not an unfamiliar position to Valverde, who previously shone in the same role during Carlo Ancelotti’s time in Spain’s capital.
Speaking during a recent press conference, Mourinho admitted that he now considers his captain to be a full-time full-back, adamant that his side are simply a superior unit when Valverde takes to the pitch on the right.
After netting the decisive third goal for Real Madrid against AEK Athens on Wednesday night, Valverde himself was therefore drawn on his new position.
And the 28-year-old went on to admit:
“I work hard to be the best midfielder and the best right-back. No different. I am trying to learn from Trent and Dumfries; they’re a reference for me.”
Conor Laird – GSFN
