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Luka Modric was given a standing ovation by Celta Vigo fans after dropping yet another masterclass for Real Madrid.
The Croatian turns 37 next month but you would never have guessed it going off his glorious display in the 4-1 victory away at Celta on Saturday night.
Karim Benzema opened the scoring with a 14th minute penalty before the hosts were awarded a spot-kick of their own and talisman Iago Aspas converted.
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But Modric restored Real's lead with a stunning curling long-range strike into the top corner from around 25 yards out.
It was his 33rd goal in La Liga for Los Blancos and 18 of those have come from outside the box.
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The former Spurs man then turned provider when he laid on the most gorgeous defence-splitting pass in behind for Vinicius Jr to dart in behind and make it 3-1.
Modric played 77 minutes and was replaced by Dani Ceballos. And after putting on a serious show, the former Spurs man received a wonderful ovation from the home fans at Estadio de Balaídos.
The cameras panned the Celta supporters, who were up on their feet and applauding to show their appreciation for one of the very best midfield players in the world.
Modric has received standing ovations from a number of different fanbases in recent times, including the likes of Atletico, Levante, Alaves and Real Sociedad.
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Asked about the reception afterwards, Modric said: “It’s a really nice thing and it’s special when the fans of other teams show their appreciation and applaud you. I’m really pleased, I’d like to thank those fans for this day”.
It was a first game for Modric without long-time midfield partner Casemiro, who is joining Manchester United.
Both he and Toni Kroos had penned emotional letters to the Brazilian and Modric has called up for others to step up to the mark.
He added: "It’s a shame, we’ve made history with him here, he’s been a crucial player for us. We’ll really miss him both as a footballer and as a person, but it’s part of football. Now we have to carry on without him and each of us will step up”.
Featured Image Credit: Image: Premier SportsTopics: Real Madrid, Luka Modric, La Liga, Celta Vigo
