Carlo Ancelotti was impressed with the performance that James Rodriguez produced upon his return to the Real Madrid starting lineup this afternoon.

The summer signing from AS Monaco had spent the previous two months on the sidelines with a foot injury, but having regained his fitness, the Colombian replaced the suspended Isco for the clash against Granada.

He was unable to get his name on the scoresheet in the 9-1 rout, but his display, which included two assists, pleased his boss.

"He played very well. It didn't look as though he hadn't played for two months," Ancelotti told the club's official website.

"He showed his quality, intensity and his ability to keep possession. He is a very direct player and always shows great vision and awareness."

Rodriguez has made 34 appearances for Madrid in all competitions this season.

Written by
Liam Apicella