'Wherever I put him, he contributes': One Real Madrid player Carlo Ancelotti considers irreplaceable

Speaking to the media ahead of Sunday's El Clasico, Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has heaped praise on Federico Valverde.

"His season is the season of consistency. He is a team player and that is decisive.

"Wherever I put him, he contributes – as a winger, as a pivot, he gives assists, goals. He’s irreplaceable for me," Carletto said.

Irreplaceable, indeed. The Uruguayan is the only player to have featured in all of Madrid's 45 fixtures this season, accumulating over 3,500 minutes on the pitch.

It's fulfilling to see him finally reaping the fruits of his hard work.

🏃 'My job is to run until I can't no more': Recalling Valverde's words as midfielder hits 45th straight game for Madrid