Valverde denies refusing to play after Real Madrid benching

Federico Valverde has denied refusing to play for Real Madrid after being left on the bench during the club's 5-0 Champions League win over Kairat Almaty in Almaty on Tuesday, saying reports that he refused a defensive role damaged his reputation. The Uruguay international issued a social media statement on Wednesday after a week in which injuries and selection decisions have intensified scrutiny of the squad and manager Xabi Alonso.

Valverde, Real Madrid's vice-captain, wrote that he had "read several articles damaging my reputation" and that "under no circumstances can they say that I refuse to play." He added that he has "given everything and more for this club" and insisted he remains available to perform "anywhere, on any trip, and in every game." The 27-year-old also acknowledged recent poor form and vowed to fight for his place.

The controversy centres on Real Madrid's shortage of senior rightbacks. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dani Carvajal were both unavailable through injury, with Carvajal set to miss around four weeks because of a calf problem. Real also managed Eder Militao after he picked up an ankle knock in the 5-2 derby loss to Atletico Madrid on Saturday. Alonso...