Real Madrid's Xabi Alonso: Playing Without A Centre-Forward Is Not A Disadvantage

Alonso explains how Real Madrid can tactically arrange themselves without a centre-forward in the line-up.
Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso believes that playing without a natural striker has its own advantages.

The Spanish giants have just one fit out-and-out striker in their squad in Karim Benzema as Gonzalo Higuain is currently sidelined with a back injury.

Jose Mourinho's demands for a new striker in the January transfer window have fallen upon deaf ears and los Blancos are likely to have just Benzema as their lone natural forward for the remainder of the season.

However, Alonso claims that Madrid can tactically use this to their advantage.

"Playing without a centre-forward has its advantages," he said according to the club's official website. "It allows Cristiano [Ronaldo] to have more freedom in attack and Marcelo to cover more ground down the wing.

"What matters is that we are true to our style regardless of who plays. It proves we have a solid squad."

The Spain international also looked ahead to Madrid's clash with Sevilla in the Copa del Rey semi-finals.

"The knockout stage will be difficult, as befits a Copa del Rey semi-final.

"The first leg at the Sanchez Pizjuan will be very tough, but I believe we are prepared to win it."