(Reuters) - Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone on Saturday jumped to the defence of Javi Galan after the 30-year-old left back's below-par performances in key matches, pointing to the quality of the opposition the defender has come up against in recent weeks.

Galan, who has replaced Reinildo in Atletico's starting lineup this season, struggled to shut out Real winger Rodrygo in a 2-1 Champions League loss and was unconvincing against Lamine Yamal in a 4-4 Copa del Rey semi-final draw with Barcelona.