Carlo Ancelotti has insisted that Javier Hernandez could be an important player for Real Madrid after the Mexican striker scored the late winner against Atletico Madrid in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

Chicharito could keep his place in Real's future starting lineups after injuries to Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema opened up the opportunity for the on-loan Manchester United striker at the Bernabeu on Wednesday.

Ancelotti remains full of praise for the 26-year-old and will look to capitalise on his good form.

"What has happened with Chicharito is an example for a lot of players that have played little," the Italian said, according to Sky Sports News.

"Due to his hard work and professionalism he was ready at the right moment. We now need to take advantage of his good form and he will be an important player for us."

Despite Ancelotti's kind words, Hernandez received criticism from Thierry Henry for his midweek celebration, with the former Arsenal striker claiming that the Mexican reacted like he had "won the World Cup".