Raul Is A Very Important Player For Real Madrid - Manuel Pellegrini

Real Madrid coach Manuel Pellegrini has played down the idea that Raul does not feature in his plans for the team.

The former Villarreal trainer explained that the club icon still has an important role to play for los Blancos, despite the fact that Raul has not featured on such a regular basis this season.

"There are different reasons for not playing - for lack of performance or because others are doing well," Pellegrini said to AS.

"Raul is a very important player through his attitude - he is in the right condition and at the level of those who are playing, and will surely regain his place in some of the upcoming games."

Pellegrini also blasted Raul's critics, stressing that he could still be relied upon in any game in spite of his age.

"They are trying to retire a player who demonstrates his ability in every match," he stated tersely.

Raul may find himself in the starting XI for Real Madrid's weekend clash with Racing Santander, which takes place at 20:00 CET on Saturday.