Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has praised the performance levels of Gareth Bale, who has been criticised by sections of the Bernabeu crowd in recent weeks.

The Welshman was whistled at the Bernabeu last weekend when he failed to pass to Cristiano Ronaldo during the 3-0 win over Espanyol.

However, Bale scored a free kick in the same match and Ancelotti has lavished praise on the former Tottenham Hotspur attacker.

"It seemed to me that it was difficult to pass the ball," Ancelotti told reporters.

"It was not necessary to talk about this with Gareth, who is playing very well. He is in top physical condition at the moment. Tomorrow he will play a great game. The relationship between both is perfect."

Ronaldo has also played down talk that there is friction between the two players.