Modric hails Madrid character

Luka Modric believes Real Madrid showed their character in beating Athletic Bilbao at San Mames, and had nothing to say about Barcelona’s Celta Vigo reverse.

Wednesday night saw Los Blancos dispatch Los Leones and Celta see off Barca, meaning the Galicians top La Liga in conjuction with Rafa Benitez’s side.

"It’s an important victory and a big three points. We’re very happy and the match was great. We showed a lot of character," Modric said, AS reports, declining to comment on Barca’s result.

"Athletic pushed more in the second half and scored their goal. It’s in those moments we show the quality and the character we have."

"I’ve nothing to say about Barca. I don’t think anything of it. We have to focus on ourselves and not worry about other teams. It surprised us a little."

Modric was asked about some of his Madrid teammates, including two-goal Karim Benzema, goalkeeper Keylor Navas, who was in search of a club clean sheet record, and compatriot Mateo Kovacic.

"Karim is a great player, incredible, among the two or three best in the world. We’re lucky to have him in our team," the midfielder considered.

"Keylor not getting the record isn’t important. He made two or three incredible saves. He had another great game. There’s no reason to be sad. What’s important is winning the game, not records.

“Mateo had an incredible game, very good. He’s happy and tired and did well, as the whole team did. These three points are for the whole team, for every player."

The interview ended with Modric looking ahead to Madrid’s next fixtures, adding that the win in Bilbao leaves Madrid in good humour.

"Now comes Malaga, another tough game, and then it’s the Champions League and Atletico Madrid away. This win gives us confidence," he confirmed.