Ramos: Gala are more than Burak

Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos says there is more to Galatasaray than Burak Yilmaz.

In addition to Burak, the Turkish giants also boast formidable names such as Wesley Sneijder and Didier Drogba in their ranks, both of whom know what it takes to win the competition, having won it with Inter and Chelsea respectively.

And Ramos says it would be a mistake to focus their efforts solely on Burak while ignoring the threat posed by Galatasaray as a whole.

“He is an important player for them, but it’s not just about him. They are a dangerous side on a collective level, not just individually,” Ramos said.

Diego Lopez is believed to have done enough to retain his starting berth with the Spanish giants for the visit of Galatasaray despite Iker Casillas recently returning to full training.

Asked about Casillas’ position in the team following the performances of stand-in goalkeeper Lopez as of late, Ramos opted for a diplomatic approach.

“Mourinho decides and names the XI (starting players),” he said.

“The positive thing is that Casillas is back with the squad and with the goalkeepers that we have we’re covered as far as the goal is concerned.”

Domestically, Ramos rued Real Madrid’s failure to secure victory against Zaragoza on Saturday and says that in addition to providing a pleasant birthday present, the three points would have also served as a morale-boost ahead of resuming Champions League action.

“We had chances to get ahead on the scoreboard but we lacked efficiency in front of the goal. I would have liked to celebrate my birthday with a win,” he said.

“The win would have done us well emotionally in terms of the Champions match too.”