Roberto Martinez lauds reported Newcastle United transfer target Luka Modric for his role in Real Madrid beating Inter Milan 2-0 on Tuesday night, while speaking with UEFA.com.
The Nerazzurri travelled to face the Galacticos knowing a win would see them top Group D, with both already through to the last 16 of the Champions League. But goals from Toni Kroos and Marco Asensio ensured Carlo Ancelotti had bragging rights over Simone Inzaghi.
The San Siro side will now be unseeded for the last 16 and host a group winner in the first-leg. Real Madrid, meanwhile, could face PSG or Sporting Lisbon of those already qualified.
Modric played the full 90-minutes in Real Madrid’s engine room against Inter Milan for his 17th appearance of the season. He has opened each of Los Blancos’ Champions League ties so far, plus 11 of their 16 La Liga fixtures.
The Croatian did not have a direct involvement in Kroos nor Asensio’s goal to follow his five previous assists. But Modric kept play moving with what possession Real Madrid managed.
Modric impressed Martinez greatly with his efforts, as the 36-year-old recorded his 100th Champions League appearance. The Belgium boss watched the Group D tie as a Technical Observer for UEFA, while the £30m former Tottenham star was the Man of the Match.
“He controlled the game in midfield, was always available and was a key player for Madrid to beat Inter’s high press,” Martinez said. “His influence was a major factor in the game.”
Modric shows Newcastle what the Real Madrid star can still offer vs Inter Milan
Modric’s impressive efforts against Inter Milan showed Newcastle what he could bring to Tyneside next year, with the Toon eying a transfer for the veteran Real Madrid midfielder.
That’s according to Super Deporte, who claim the Magpies are exploring a deal for once his contract expires in June. Defensa Central also claim Newcastle are ready to offer Modric a €16m (£263k-a/w) two-year deal to leave Real Madrid.
Modric always offered his Los Blancos teammates an outlet against the Nerazzurri when they found themselves under pressure. He also played an instrumental role in Ancelotti’s side playing out from the back to withstand Inter’s press on Tuesday.
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