Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso has this weekend moved to make clear his appreciation for the talents of Ferland Mendy.
This comes after the Frenchman was restored to Los Blancos’ XI for the first time since last season during the week.
After Real Madrid made the trip to Athens for a Champions League meeting with Olympiacos, Mendy slotted in on the left side of the visitors’ backline.
And to the credit of the oft-criticised stopper, he went on to enjoy a solid evening’s work.
Speaking to the media in his pre-match press conference ahead of locking horns with Girona on Sunday, Alonso was therefore asked for his take on Mendy’s place in his squad.
And the Spanish tactician made use of the opportunity to explain:
“He left a good impression on me. It’s the first match we’ve played with him. We didn’t know what level he’d be at in the competition, and he did very well. He’s a great defender and gives you a lot of security at the back. Coming back and feeling like this is great news.”
Conor Laird – GSFN
