Squad: Marcelo (12)

Marcelo

Marcelo Vieira da Silva Júnior, or simply Marcelo, was one of the ‘Crown Jewels’ of always-prolific Brazilian football and one of Real Madrid’s swanky winter signings of 2006/07. He arrived in Europe at the age of 18 having already hit the big time with Fluminense and he quickly adapted to Madrid thanks to the other Brazilians on the squad, but especially Roberto Carlos, who took Marcelo under his wing and taught his successor the tricks of the trade.

A pacey and offensive player, the young left-back has worked arduously since landing in Madrid hoping to capitalize on the opportunities given to him by the manager. With nerves of steel and ice running through his veins, Marcelo didn't take long to earn a spot in the starting eleven.

Marcelo’s consistent playing time also rubbed off on Brazilian national team coach Dunga, who gave the youngster his debut against Wales. No one could have written a better script as Marcelo hammered home an impressive crossed shot from outside the box in an all-out display of strength, speed, and ball-handling.

Data

• Place of Birth: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
• Date of Birth: 12/05/1988
• Position: Defender
• Weight: 73 kg
• Height: 171.9 cm
• Nationality: Brazilian

Honours

• Copa del Rey: 2011
• La Liga: 2006/07, 2007/08
• Spanish Super Cup: 2008
• Olympic Bronze Medal: 2008

Mourinho will play with Cristiano and Marcelo

Mourinho received good news yesterday; Cristiano and Marcelo are willing to force to play tomorrow against Tottenham. Neither have the medical discharge, but want to help the team and will risk a relapse. Who is practically ruled out is Benzema. French striker would also like to contribute with his "grain of sand", but his muscular contraction could result in breakage and that means three weeks off.

After Saturday's defeat, Mourinho hinted at the possibility of using the injured players in the game against the English team: "If Cristiano plays is because we are risking. The doctor says he will be prepared to play against Bilbao. Marcelo is out for two weeks and Benzema could play against Bilbao and in London. Maybe I will step over the medical department and then they will kill me...". Well, yesterday, Cristiano and Marcelo reported in Valdebebas they want to help the team against Tottenham and assume the consequences.

Cristiano and Marcelo

Mourinho has no choice. He has to risk because the League is lost and in April, are at stake the two major competitions for the white team: Champions League and Spanish Cup. Against Tottenham he must put the best eleven possible. Cristiano and Marcelo are essential to get options for the second leg in London. Portuguese for what he represents for the team... and the rival. Brazilian showed his verticality against Lyon, making the goal that opened the road to success.

Starter team will not have only news from Cristiano and Marcelo, but also with Xabi and Pepe. Spanish player did not play on Saturday because suspension and center defense because he was reserved for tomorrow. Both, will return against Tottenham. Another that will also start is Di Maria.The side midfielder requested the change against Sporting due to a huge blow in his left leg, but he is recovered. Higuain is not able to play as starter. The Argentine came back after four months out, but it is still early to play 90 minutes. Therefore, Adebayor will be in the starting lineup

Champions League (Last-16, 2nd Leg): Marcelo reactions

No matter that he leaves gaps for his side or does not defend. All offsets. His significance in attack reminds Roberto Carlos. He is not expected and creates many holes in opposing defenses. With the ball makes almost everything right, when dribbling, when he assists to a teammate. He opened the scoring with a remarkable goal that had everything. He linked with Xabi and Cristiano, sat a Lyon player in the area and Lloris could not get his shot. Gave the scare about the break but was able to finish the game.

Marcelo scored the first goal

"We are very happy with the victory. It's been a very important triumph for team and fans alike following tough seasons. We had a debt with Madrid fans and, thank God, we reached the next round. We are calmer now."

"We played like the coach asked us to and we played hard from the start. We're not thinking about which opponent we may face in the quarterfinals. We will try to win and thrill our supporters regardless of whom we face."

"I wish to express my support for Abidal and his family. Rivalry steps aside when things like this happen. What matters is that he recovers as soon as possible."

League (Day 23): Marcelo and Pepe reactions

MARCELO: "WE ARE ALL FIGHTING TOGHETER TO WIN"

Marcelo

Real have won a victory in a very difficult field. Do you imagine that it would be so difficult?

"We knew it would be very complicated but we did not hope an expulsion so soon. All played our hardest and we reverse the situation. It is a very important victory to keep fighting for the league."

Team demonstrated an extraordinary character to win a match that started badly for you ...
"This is a great family and we are all fighting together to win. Whenever we get the three points."

You scored your first goal this season. This puts team back in the fight for the League.
"I am delighted to score and can help the team. But more important was the victory and catching up to Barcelona."

With the effort you made to defeat Espanyol has become clear that Real Madrid is not physically ill, as some say ...
"People talk about what they want, but we work hard to get this win and so we will continue until the end of the season. We are very excited about these three points and to achieve a new victory."

PEPE: "WE FACED UP TO THE CHALLENGE"

Pepe

What adifficult game to play again!
"It is a reward to me to be in the starting eleven. It was a chance not to disappoint the coach. I've worked hard for this. I am very happy with the job I did today and with the efforts my team-mates made. Espanyol have very good players and it was hard for us to score. It was a tense and complicated game, so we are very happy with this victory."

What did you think when you saw the Barcelona match in Gijon?
"We faced up to the challenge. We are working to catch up with Barcelona. We still have to face them at home and, if we win, we will be closer to winning the title. If we continue to concentrate this hard, to showcase maturity and working this well, we will catch up with Barcelona."

Did Casillas touch Callejon in the play of the expulsion?
"The play is very fast. It is an interpretation of the referee and we are there to play. I do not know well, but the good thing is that we react."

Are you going to renew for Real Madrid?"I will not discuss this issue. At the moment I can only say I am happy in Madrid and people treat me very well. I will do everything possible to stay."

Valdano said after the game that your renewal is progressing well...
"Good to hear that (laughs). I have to do my work on the field."

Any offer of Barcelona?
"I am a Real player and it is a lack of respect for the people of Madrid. I'm happy at Madrid."