Legendary "Real" defender F. Hierro did not hesitate to praise R. Varane after "El Clasico" battle. © EuroFootball.com

Legendary Real Madrid defender Fernando Hierro praised young Raphael Varane after Wednesday's "El Clasico" battle with Barcelona.

Making his debut for the French national team, the defender saved the team from defeat at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium, and also played confidently in defense.

"Real" has been missing key defenders for some time, but R. Varane has been an excellent substitute for them, he is truly very talented," Hierro told the newspaper Marca.

"Raphael controls the ball well on the field, he is a very fast player and plays well with his head. This player has no flaws at all," the Spaniard said.