Sergio Ramos: My critics won't drag me down Real Madrid Responded to whistles from the Bernabeu

Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos accompanied Luis Enrique to the pre-match conference ahead of Spain's all-important showdown with Croatia on Thursday, and admitted that criticism doesn't affect him.

The ex-Sevilla man was on the receiving end of whistles from the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu recently after Madrid's poor start to the season.

"If the Bernabeu has a go at you it's because they think you can give much more," he told reporters.

"I have seen great legends whistled.

"If they have whistled me once in 14 years I should be eternally grateful.

"When things go well I don't get carried away and my critics won't drag me down.

"I don't take it personally."

The 32-year-old also expressed his joy at a return to the squad for friend and rival Jordi Alba.

"He is one of the best left-backs in the world," Ramos continued.

"I'm happy because he's a great friend.

"He can offer us a lot because he is at a great level."

Ramos was also happy at the prospect of the Maksimir Stadium being full on Thursday after England had to play in a behind-closed-doors match in Croatia last time out.

"I wouldn't mix sport and politics," he explained.

"I love to play in full grounds even if away from home as long as there is no violence."

The Los Blancos star was also in agreement with Luka Modric's comments that people in football have a 'short memory'.

"Unfortunately memories in football are soon forgotten.

"Football is about the day-to-day.

"They will miss certain players when they aren't there anymore.

"It's cruel like that but it has its pros and cons."

Finally Ramos expressed his gratitude to national team coach Luis Enrique for his words of praise, having previously been arch-rivals during the Asturian's time at Barcelona.

"I'm happy that those who know of my dedication to this profession are fair," he intimated.

"It satisfies me that all the coaches that I've had have spoken well of me.

"I have always been the first to get stuck in.

"I would invite many people to spend a day with me and see how I live football so when they speak they know what they're talking about.

"I respect football and try to be fair with it."