Ancelotti plays down conflict talk

Paris Saint-Germain coach Carlo Ancelotti has dispelled rumours that there is trouble in the dressing room.

The speculation started when summer signing Thiago Silva reportedly revealed he preferred playing alongside Alex instead of Mamadou Sakho.

The former AC Milan defender made headlines when he claimed his compatriot possessed more international experience than the PSG captain.

However, Thiago Silva has since clarified the intentions of those statements, insisting they were misread and apologised to Sakho in the process, and Ancelotti has now added his support.

“Thiago is a player and an intelligent man and I do not think he has said these things,” the 53-year-old confirmed to gathered reporters at a press conference.

“All combinations (between Thiago Silva, Alex and Sakho) are good. We have three central defenders in very good condition.

“Alex is in good condition, and rested against Bastia. He can play three straight games.”

The Italian continued by discouraging his men from underestimating their next Champions League opponents, Porto, as the Ligue 1 runners-up travel to the Dragao outfit seeking another victory.

“This is the team (Porto) that has the most experience in the group. It will be a good test in a stadium that is difficult to win at,” Ancelotti continued.

“I do not think they have weakened with Hulk’s departure.

“Tomorrow, the most important thing is to have the courage and personality to play football on a difficult context. We will have to defend well as Porto are strong in attack.”