Real Madrid legend Jorge Valdano feels that players returning from injury will give Los Blancos an edge when they play cross-town rivals Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.
In a repeat of the last year’s final, the two Madrid giants have been drawn to play each other in the quarter-final of the Champions League when the European competition resumes next month.
Atletico Madrid have had the better of their illustrious neighbours this term, having won four times and drawn twice in their six fixtures across three competitions.
And having relinquished their lead at the top of La Liga after a run of poor results, Real Madrid are expecting a tough outing against their fierce rivals.
But Valdano, who has played as well managed Los Blancos, feels that the return of Real Madrid first team regulars like Luka Modric, Sergio Ramos and James Rodriguez, will significantly boost their chances.
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“Real Madrid will go into the tie in much better shape than recent matches”, the Argentine was quoted as saying by Marca.
“Modric and Ramos are recovering and James is expected to be back.
“They need to play like they did in Barcelona, without making any mistakes.
“If the team are capable of achieving that level of concentration, they have a great chance in both the Champions League and in La Liga.”
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