Real Madrid coach Bernd Schuster was pleased with Fernando Gago's performance in yesterday's 2-0 win at Levante.

Both goals came via Ruud van Nistelrooy, while plenty of focus was on Argentine Gago, who was filling in for Mahamadou Diarra as Schuster's midfield anchor.

The Real boss said: "I liked Gago today because he works very hard and plugs many holes. He never stops working. He played well and we leave here with three points and the Liga leadership.

"The most difficult part of this game was motivating the players about facing an inferior team. I spoke to them about this during the week and didn't have to say anything today."