Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho praises Nuri Sahin after Ponferradina victory

Posted Thursday, December 22, 2011 by Supersport.com

The ex-Dortmund man found the net in an emphatic cup victory, and his manager affirmed that goals would help him regain confidence after an injury-plagued start to life in Spain

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho was pleased with his team after a comprehensive 5-1 victory over Ponferradina on Tuesday evening, and singled out Nuri Sahin for praise after the midfielder made a decisive contribution.

Los Merengues sealed a 7-1 aggreate Copa del Rey last-16 success at the Santiago Bernabeu. Jose Callejon hit twice, while Sahin scored his first goal for the Spanish side since moving from Borussia Dortmund.

Speaking after the match, Mourinho highlighted the contribution of the Turkey international, as he continued his encouraging return from the injuries which have impeded his fledgling career at the Santiago Bernabeu.

"The good things that [Sahin] does will only help him in his process of recuperation. The goal and the assist are vital for his confidence," the trainer told reporters in the post-match press conference.

Mourinho also referenced his previous comments, when he claimed that Madrid would win any other league aside from La Liga.

"What I was saying the other day when I said we would win a different league, I was saying it to praise my team and also the rival [Barcelona], who won the Liga and the Champions League," the Portuguese stated.

Madrid are the reigning Copa del Rey champions, having defeated Barcelona 1-0 in the 2011 final after extra time.