Real Madrid star Thibaut Courtois has this weekend moved to reveal his appreciation for the most recent efforts of teammate and backup Andriy Lunin.

Shot-stopper Lunin was for his part afforded his very first appearance of the campaign last weekend, cast into the fire in a trip to arch rivals Barcelona. This came after the aforementioned Courtois was struck down by a last-minute bout of illness.

The Ukrainian went on to enjoy a fine showing at the Camp Nou, with one particular save with the scoreline locked at 1-1 having proven decisive en route to Real Madrid’s eventual victory.

Nevertheless, Lunin was forced to make do with a place on the bench for the latest occasion earlier today, as José Mourinho’s troops made short work of Racing Santander.

Speaking to the media post-match, the aforementioned Thibaut Courtois therefore made use of the opportunity to heap praise on his fellow shot-stopper:

“Andriy Lunin won us El Clásico!”