Monday, 28th December 2009

With Real Madrid looking to bring in a defender to fill in for Pepe, who is expected to miss the rest of the season, Chelsea’s Branislav Ivanovic has been tipped as an ideal replacement. The Serbian international has been a regular at Stamford Bridge this season, with regular right-back Jose Bosingwa out with a long-term injury. His extended run in the side has seen him impress the Blues faithful, and has alerted Spanish giants Real Madrid.

Serbia coach Radomir Antic has seen Ivanovic evolve into a solid defender, and believes the 25-year-old would cut it in the Spanish capital. “He is very physical and is always composed," said Antic to Sky Sports. "He has the ability to play for Real Madrid."

Ivanovic joined Chelsea from Lokomotiv Moscow in January 2007 and has only recently become a regular first-team player. He has made 28 appearances for his country, and is expected to be a key figure in Serbia’s World Cup hopes in June.

 

 

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