Xabi Alonso: 'Cristiano Ronaldo is crucial'

Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso has said that Cristiano Ronaldo is "crucial" to the team's chances of success this season.

The Portuguese has spent the last three weeks on the sidelines with a muscular complaint, but is expected to return for Wednesday's Champions League semi-final first leg against Bayern Munich.

"Cristiano is going to play, if he's 100%. It's a decision for the manager, the player and the coaching team to make," Inside Spanish Football quotes Alonso as telling reporters.

"We need him to play though, he's an important player. Cristiano gives us explosiveness, potential to create chances and get goals. For us he's a crucial player and when he's there, we take advantage of our opportunities."

The first leg will take place at the Bernabeu.