Atletico now on a par with Real Madrid, says coach Simeone

It is sure to be intense occasions at the Vicente Calderon and, although Atletico has been inconsistent this season, that should help lift Simeone’s men to victory. He is making a huge effort to be fit.

Having fractured his metatarsal against Leganes before the global break, Toni Kroos will be a key man missing in Real’s midfield and that could play to Atletico’s advantage on Saturday.

“As always it is a great stadium with great fans, but the Madrid players are used to playing in all hostile and hard atmospheres”, added Zidane.

Morata has been in fine form since returning to Madrid from Juventus.

Cerezo refused to confirm or deny if there was an agreement between the Madrid clubs that Real would not move for Griezmann, but said: “Beside the sporting rivalry that exists between the two clubs, there is a magnificent relationship with them”.

“Kroos’ absence will be another new problem as they don’t have a similar player able to cover his spot”.

I don’t believe there is any possibility of Griezmann going to Madrid, or to any other team.

Atletico striker Antoine Griezmann could play after his foot injury improved during the week.

“Griezmann’s career is developing amazingly”, said Antic.

Ramos hasn’t played since spraining knee ligaments over a month ago, but is aiming to return with his usual central defensive partner Pepe also a major doubt.

“He’s having a great season”.

Despite generally playing second fiddle in Spain’s capital, Atleti have been revitalised under Simeone’s leadership – most notably when they memorably claimed the 2013-14 LaLiga title at Barcelona’s expense on the final day of the season.

“Another thing Simeone has done is recover Atletico’s traditional values, like fighting until the end, making the opposition feel uncomfortable and instilling pride in the team”.

Six points behind Real Madrid are Atletico and they will view this fixture as a must win, as a loss would put them nine points behind their city neighbours.

“Simeone does not only perfectly control what happens on the pitch, but also off the pitch”.

Two of the world’s best talents go up against one another for the first time since this summer’s Euro 2016 final.