Gerardo Martino wants referee to be tough on Real Madrid's "violent play"

Barcelona coach Gerardo Martino has called on the referee to put an end to the "violent play" from Real Madrid in Saturday's El Clasico.

Last season's Clasicos saw 16 yellows and one red card handed out over the course of two fiery contests, but Martino said that he wants the officials to get firm on any tough challenges.

"Am I afraid of Madrid's violent play? No, every team plays according to their possibilities and there's a referee who should judge," Martino told the press ahead of the game.

The Argentine coach also revealed that he decided on his starting XI before the 1-1 draw with AC Milan on Tuesday evening.

Martino added: "I already had the line-up for tomorrow decided before the game against AC Milan. I would only have changed if something happened.

"Andres Iniesta, Cesc Fabregas and Xavi are all great and would play everywhere. By leaving players out I'm always close to committing an injustice [because of the quality of that player]."

Victory for Barcelona on Saturday would extend their lead in La Liga to four points.