Real Madrid chief Butragueno defends Owen signing

Real Madrid sports director Emilio Butragueno has rubbished claims that it was a mistake to sign former Liverpool striker Michael Owen.

"To sign a great player, it always means a big decision and this one is the case of Michael. It is stupid to say that to sign him was an error. Simply, we must have patience," said Butragueno.

"When Zidane first arrived the expectation was huge. That first month was very difficult for him. The same is now being experienced by Michael. What Zidane has since done speaks for itself."

"We hope the same will happen for Michael."