Fabio Capello backs Atletico Madrid's brand of football

Russia boss Fabio Capello has insisted that Atletico Madrid are not "a violent team".

The Spanish champions have faced criticism in various quarters for a perceived over-physical style of play in recent seasons, but Capello has said that the club's approach is perfectly legal.

"Atleti aren't a violent team. Football's not for sissies," he told Onda Cero. They're are a team who play with extra courage, unlike [Real] Madrid and Barca.

"They have a very big desire to suffer, win and play as a team. There's no such thing as a violent team, who will cut your legs [into two] when you walk onto the pitch. They play physical football. It's been around for a lifetime."

Capello has managed Atletico's rivals Real Madrid on two separate occasions.