Atletico Madrid coach Javier Aguirre defended Sergio Aguero after the striker missed last night's defeat to Real Valladolid.

Aguero did not arrive back in time from international duty with Argentina to make the team list, but Aguirre insisted afterwards: "The error was caused by the flight tickets organised by the AFA (Argentine FA).

"I cannot criticise him because for two years he has displayed exemplary behaviour."