GIFTED midfielder Shaun MacDonald insisted Cherries would use as a learning experience their chance to have shared a stage with Real Madrid.

MacDonald was one of Cherries’ shining lights during their 6-0 defeat by the Spanish giants in a prestigious pre-season friendly on Sunday.

The 25-year-old relished his game time against a star-studded Real line-up and raised a loud cheer after his timely tackle on Cristiano Ronaldo had left the Portuguese on the deck in the first half.

MacDonald, capped by Wales at under-21 level, told the Daily Echo: “It was a great experience against some of the world’s best players and one of the biggest clubs in the world.

"We knew it was going to be tough and just wanted to get something out of it in terms of fitness and confidence. I thought we started really well and then the goals gave them a bit of push.

“Although the scoreline wasn’t brilliant for us, they have done that to some of the best teams in the world so we can’t be too disappointed.”

MacDonald, who was dubbed Zidane by his former Swansea team-mates for his knack of being able to keep possession, added: “There were lots of things they did brilliantly and things to learn from.

“They were excellent at short, sharp one-twos around the edge of the box and were never in a rush to cross the ball. They knew when to switch the ball and broke lines when they wanted. To be better than we are, we have to learn from players like that.

“Everyone was looking forward to it and we knew it was going to be tough. It was a good day for the club, not just players, but the supporters and everyone who turned up.”

Discussing pre-season, MacDonald said: “The main thing is to get your fitness up and keep away from niggling injuries because, if you get one, it can knock you back a few days and that is the last thing anybody wants.

“I am looking forward to the games we have got left and we will be pushing ourselves as a team to be ready for the start of the season. Hopefully, we can try to do something special in the Championship this season.

“We have got a very good squad and are close knit. We want to see everyone do well and, individually, we all want to be playing. To be in the team, you have got to impress and do well when you are given a chance. That is my aim and I am sure it is everyone else’s too.”