Toni Kroos leaps to the defence of Carlo Ancelotti by insisting critics don't do him 'justice'

Real Madrid midfielder Tonis Kroos has come to the defence of Carlo Ancelotti, insisting critics don't do the Italian boss 'justice'.

Ancelotti was seen consulting with Kroos and other players in the dying embers of the incredible semi-final comeback win over Manchester City.

But the Germany international has compared Ancelotti to former Bayern Munich boss Jepp Heynckes, claiming the pair don't get praise for their tactical awareness.

Ancelotti has often received praise for his man-management, but Kroos says the Italian boss offers more than just that.

Speaking ahead of the Champions League final clash with Liverpool, the 32-year-old told German outlet ZDF:  'It caught my attention with Heynckes. It's a shame that Heynckes and Ancelotti are reduced to just being good wardrobe managers.

'I think they don't do them justice, they sound like they don't know anything about tactics.

'Maybe they'll opt for most of occasions by the least complicated way in football, but they are very clear about how they want their teams to play, defend and attack. That aspect is not usually taken into account when talking about them'.

Over two spells at the club, Ancelotti has led the Spanish giants to Champions League, LaLiga and Copa del Rey victory.

In a repeat of the 2018 final, Real Madrid will seek their 14th European cup when they take on Jurgen Klopp's side.

But Kroos believes the current Liverpool team is better than the one from four years ago, insisting the contest will be even.

He said: 'In a Champions League final you give everything, especially considering that we already had to give everything on more than one occasion to reach the final. Now we are there and we want to win it.

'Honestly, I think that Liverpool is a better team than in 2018. The thing is 50%,' said the German media about the Champions League Final.'