MADRID: Attacker Cristiano Ronaldo (pic) claimed he and his Real Madrid teammates are not yet in their prime physical shape.

Los Blancos were held at home by Valencia in a 1-1 draw at Santiago Bernabeu this morning and the Portuguese superstar revealed that his side still have work to do on the training ground to improve their competitiveness.

"We're not yet in the best shape physically," said Ronaldo.. "It is normal. We'll be better, we are trying to."

"We have tried everything, but still need to reach the highest level we can.

"The equalizer was a pity, we had given everything to win. We had many chances but it was not to be."

Real will now turn their attentions to arch rivals Barcelona, who they face in the first leg of the Spanish Super Cup at Nou Camp on Thursday.

Meanwhile, defender Pepe was taken to hospital for observation after a collision with teammate and goalkeeper Iker Casillas during the match.

With Casillas attempting to clear a cross that led to Jonas' equalising for Los Che, the duo came together and the impact left both men prone on the ground while the opposition celebrated.

Pepe was replaced by Raul Albiol at halftime and departed the stadium for the hospital soon after.

Real stated that initial test show there is no brain damage to the 29-year-old, but revealed he would stay overnight for observations.

Ronaldo lent his support to his teammate, stating to Press Association sources: "Pepe is in hospital and we'll see how he progresses. He is an important player for us but his health is the most important thing."

Casillas offered his recollections of the event and also praised his counterpart in the Valencia goal for keeping the scores level until full-time.

"I remember nothing of the play. Only that I went for the ball, and nothing else. It is a pity to concede goals from set pieces," he said.

"Let's see if what Pepe has is something. They've taken him to hospital because head injuries can be serious.

"Real deserved the victory over Valencia on chances. The defence of Valencia and goalkeeper Diego Alves were very good."

Striker Gonzalo Higuain, who scored the opening goal of the game for Real, echoed the sentiments of his teammates.

"It is a game we should have won because we had many chances, especially in the second half. Their goalkeeper was good. It is a shame, but it is not cause for alarm," he said.

- mD

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