Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has insisted that Cristiano Ronaldo is motivated following his three-match suspension.

The 29-year-old forward, who was dismissed in the 1-1 draw with Athletic Bilbao earlier this month, returns to action against Schalke 04 in the Champions League tomorrow night.

"He's especially motivated because he wasn't happy about not being able to play," Ancelotti is quoted as saying by Spanish publication Marca. "He has used this time to prepare, rest and has been working very hard.

"He is on top form both physically and mentally right now. I think it'll be a very intense game. Schalke is a quality, well-organised side. We have to pull out all the stops to win here."

Ronaldo has scored 31 goals for Madrid so far this season.

Written by
Daniel Lewis