Valencia downplay Ronaldo’s absence

(GSM) – Valencia have countered the media, who have highlighted the suspension of Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo for Saturday’s game between the La Liga title rivals, by claiming that too are missing a top player in David Silva.

Second-placed Real visit the side three points below them in the standings and local media have made much of the Portugal forward’s irresponsible behaviour in collecting two yellow cards last weekend to earn a suspension for the Valencia game.

The first was for taking his shirt off to celebrate scoring a goal and the second, picked up minutes later, was for kicking an opponent.

Coach Manuel Pellegrini was left without his most potent forward and playmaker Kaka, who is nursing a groin problem.

But Valencia stalwart David Albelda was quick to draw attention to the absence of Spain midfielder Silva.

“If Ronaldo and Kaka don’t come that’s great for us, and if someone else is out as well even better,” Albelda told a news conference ahead of Saturday’s game.

“We’re without Silva but we don’t keep going on about it. Silva is as good as they are and plays in a similar position.”

The match gives third-placed Valencia the chance to close in on the top two. They are unbeaten in 15 matches in all competitions.