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Real Madrid coach Ancelotti: The knives were out...

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti was happy with Sergio Ramos' performance in midfield for their Champions League win over Atletico Madrid.

Ancelotti knows he would've been hammered if the move had not come off.

"I thought about it a lot. After that game against Barcelona (when Ramos played in midfield), a lot of people vilified me for doing that but I thought, well at least they can't destroy me again - I'm still here, I'm still alive. With Ramos we were more comfortable at dealing with Atlético's corners and free-kicks.

"And besides, he has the quality to play in that position. He did well, he was convinced that he could carry the team playing in that new role."

He continued: "I have the affection of the club and the players, and a lot of other people. Sometimes the criticism is a positive thing for me, but it isn't when a journalist asks for compassion for me because I don't need compassion."

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