Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane was delighted to count on Gareth Bale for victory over Espanyol.

Bale struck in his comeback game on the day.

Zidane said: “I'm happy to have him back. He was eager to get back playing again. When he came on, I told him to go out and enjoy himself, that was all I said. We'd discussed his position previously. He's a key player and we're all happy, especially the player himself. Gareth is Gareth. We've only got one Gareth Bale, but we've got other players who are doing a great job.

"He's a special player, he's different from the rest, but each player does their bit. It doesn't look like he's been out for three months. He's very powerful, he makes the difference and that's why he's special. I'm happy to have the front three available because we know what they can offer, as well as what the rest can do."