Ancelotti: Casillas will start against Galatasaray

The Spanish club's coach is set to pick Spain star ahead of Diego Lopez in his Champions League starting side against the Turkish giants

Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed Iker Casillas will start in Real Madrid's opening Champions League group match against Galatasaray on Tuesday.

The goalkeeper has been left out in the cold so far this season, with Ancelotti opting for Diego Lopez in all of his La Liga matches so far.

However, while giving praise to Lopez for his consistent performances, the Italian has announced plans to rotate his squad ahead of the first Champions League group game this term.

"Diego played really well, but the Iker decision has been made," the 54-year-old was quoted as saying by Marca.

He went on to praise Gareth Bale's performance in the 2-2 draw against Villareal last weekend, where the €100 million Welshman was able to get himself on the scoresheet.

"Bale is happy. He played well and showed a good attitude on the pitch," he said.

"I don't think it was the team's worst performance this season. It was clear that the two teams were playing at different tempos. That's to be expected after the international break."