Atletico out to hurt Real in Madrid derby showdown

Gareth Bale is expected to finally make his home debut for Real after a thigh strain forced him to pull out of last weekend’s 4-1 win over Getafe in the warm-up.

And with Luis likely to go head-to-head with the Welshman, he is aware of the challenge that awaits him. ‘I think that the best thing for the spectacle is that everyone is available and able to play.  ‘Bale is a very good player, but Real Madrid have the fortune to be able to count on Bale or Di Maria, who also cost 40 million, or Isco, who cost I don’t know how much.

‘Whoever plays it is obvious Bale is a fantastic player. I have never played against him, but I know it will be difficult to stop him.’ Diego Costa will be the biggest threat to Real with his seven goals in six league games so far rumoured to have the naturalised Brazilian on the verge of a call-up to  Spanish national team.