Alvaro Rubio calls for strong performance

Real Valladolid midfielder Alvaro Rubio has called on his side to be "united" in Wednesday's La Liga clash with Real Madrid at Jose Zorrilla.

The visitors need the three points to keep their title challenge alive, but victory for Valladolid would move them out of the relegation zone with just two games to play.

"We know how much is at stake for us," Inside Spanish Football quotes Rubio as saying.

"This game isn't just about us trying to look good against Real Madrid, it's about trying to win. The squad is united and we're convinced we can achieve permanence in La Liga."

Valladolid, who sit second from bottom in the table, are currently one point behind 17th-placed Getafe.