'Because of his profile, he can' – Carlo Ancelotti claims shock name could replace Antonio Rudiger in Real Madrid defence against Atletico Madrid due to injury

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti believes midfielder Eduardo Camavinga is a backup option to play at centre-back against Atletico Madrid.

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• Real host Atletico in La Liga clash
• Los Blancos short of defenders
• Ancelotti considers Camavinga

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  Madrid are currently without some key personnel in defence, including Eder Militao (knee) and David Alaba (knee). If Antonio Rudiger does not overcome his recent illness, Ancelotti will have to look elsewhere for alternatives, including full-backs Ferland Mendy and Dani Carvajal. The Real manager even admitted Camavinga could fill in against Atletico on Sunday night despite having never played at centre-back.

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  WHAT CARLO ANCELOTTI SAID

  When asked if Mendy or Carvajal would be ready to play at centre-back, Ancelotti told reporters: "Yes… and the third option would be Camavinga, who has never played, but because of his profile, he can. He’s quick, with good ball control and is strong in duels. Those would be the three options. But all three give me confidence. In my opinion, the job of a centre-back, of a pivot, is the easiest in football, because you have to use your head more than your energy. All three could do it well."

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Los Blancos face a huge game against local rivals Atletico, looking to extend their lead at the top of La Liga to four points following Girona's goalless draw with Real Sociedad on Saturday. Three points against Diego Simeone's men will also extend their lead over Barcelona to 10 points and Atletico to 13 so there is plenty to play for.

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• WHAT NEXT?

  After this heavyweight clash at Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid have a top of the table clash with early-season pace setters Girona at home next Saturday. A win there, coupled with a victory against Atletico, would open up a seven point lead at the top of the league.