Carlo Ancelotti has backed the Real Madrid players criticised for attending Cristiano Ronaldo's 30th birthday party after the 4-0 loss to Atletico Madrid.

 The festivities took place only hours after last Saturday's defeat, and were attended by team-mates and staff, including James Rodriguez, Sami Khedira and assistant coach Paul Clement.

"Some think this might affect the professionalism," coach Ancelotti said.

"These players have demonstrated their professionalism many times."

The Italian, who guided Real to the Champions League title and third place in La Liga last season, added: "My job is to evaluate the professionalism of the players and about that I have no doubt. There is no lack of motivation."

Los Blancos lead the Spanish league by one point from Barcelona going in to Saturday's home fixture against Deportivo.

Midfielders Rodriguez, Khedira, Luka Modric and defender Sergio Ramos are all out injured.

Barca host struggling Levante on Sunday, before Atletico, in third, play at mid-table Celta Vigo.

Real follow Saturday's contest with their Champions League last 16 first-leg tie at German Bundesliga side Schalke, on Wednesday.