Gareth Bale’s inclusion is the headline team news for Rayo Vallecano-Real Madrid, which kicks off at 21:00 BST.

The Welshman’s season was purported to be over after reports emerged that he sustained a foot injury, but he has allayed any fears about his fitness by starting tonight.

Elsewhere, Madrid welcome back Dani Carvajal at right-back, with Alvaro Arbeloa dropping to the substitutes’ bench.

Los Blancos desperately need a win tonight or face falling further behind League leaders Barcelona, while Rayo are gunning for their first Madrid victory in almost 20 years.

Rayo Vallecano: Cristian; Tito, Amaya, Ze Castro, Nacho; Fatau, Trashorras; Embarba, Kakuta, Bueno; Manucho

Subs: Cobena, Ba, Insua, Aquino, Jozabed, Lica, Fedor

Real Madrid: Casillas; Carvajal, Ramos, Varane, Marcelo; Kroos, Modric, James; Bale, Benzema, Ronaldo

Subs: Navas, Nacho, Coentrao, Isco, Illarramendi, Chicharito, Jese

Referee: Melero Lopez

La Liga - Club News