Real Madrid prepare for return of Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo is finally set to open his La Liga campaign on the weekend, returning from a five match ban for pushing a referee.

Forced to miss the second leg of the Spanish Super Cup, as well as the first four matches of the side's title defence, Ronaldo has seen his team-mates struggle to take chances as they slipped to two home draws.

Speaking about the Portuguese talisman, Zidane told that the press that he hoped this would be the last time they were without Ronaldo.

"We do need him, it's Cristiano, he is a very important player for everything that he has done.

"When Cristiano is not with us we still have a good squad to do things well. It's important to know we have got other players that come in and do things the correct way."

Zidane is also expected to recall Toni Kroos to the starting line up against Real Betis.