Russia boss Fabio Capello has insisted that Atletico Madrid are not "a violent team".
The Spanish champions have faced criticism in various quarters for a perceived over-physical style of play in recent seasons, but Capello has said that the club's approach is perfectly legal.
"Atleti aren't a violent team. Football's not for sissies," he told Onda Cero. They're are a team who play with extra courage, unlike [Real] Madrid and Barca.
"They have a very big desire to suffer, win and play as a team. There's no such thing as a violent team, who will cut your legs [into two] when you walk onto the pitch. They play physical football. It's been around for a lifetime."
Capello has managed Atletico's rivals Real Madrid on two separate occasions.
Written by
Matt Law
Matt Law
