Perez says trophies are only solution to Real crisis

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has told his players the only way to appease the club's discontented fans is to win a trophy this season.

"Real Madrid fans are sad," Perez told a meeting of players and coaching staff at the club's training base in Valdebebas on Monday. "For me you are the best, but you mustn't forget that you are Real Madrid players."

"This club has to win trophies. Union, quality, courage and professionalism are needed in all three competitions and we have to fight hard to win each one of them."

Perez's New Year message to his players came on the eve of the first leg of their King's Cup tie against Athletic Bilbao, a competition that is likely to provide Real with their best chance of a trophy this season.

Like the rest of the Primera Liga clubs who have played in Europe his season, Real have been given a bye into the last 16 of the knockout competition.

Real have not won a major trophy since June 2003 when they secured the league title on the final day of the season.

They are 11 points adrift of leaders Barcelona in the Primera Liga and have a daunting task on their hands if they are to win through the knockout rounds of the Champions League.

Real have already strengthened their squad with Brazil right back Cicinho during the transfer window and are reported to be on the verge of signing striker Antonio Cassano from AS Roma.

Coach Juan Ramon Lopez Caro, who took charge after Vanderlei Luxemburgo was sacked last month, said he would welcome the arrival of the Italy international.

"We all know that Cassano is a skilful player and a goal scorer of international quality," the Real boss told a news conference on Monday.

"I'm happy with the squad I have at my disposal and if Cassano arrives he will have to work like the rest, but if he can bring something new to the team he will make this club greater."