Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois insists the season should be decided on the pitch.

Courtois had caused a stir by suggesting that it would have been unfair to hand the title to Barcelona, who currently sit atop the standings in Spain's top flight, if the season were to be cancelled.

"At no point did I say that Real Madrid had to be declared champions," Courtois confirmed in an interview with Television Espanola.

"If the league ends, we're in a better position even if we lost to Betis.

"If we play the 11 remaining matches then I am confident that my team can win the league."