Real Madrid No2 Aitor Karanka admits Pepe's return is a big boost going into their clash with Champions League opponents Manchester United.

Pepe made his first appearance of the year in victory over Sevilla.

"It was one of our options to get through the last part of the match and we thought that it was the best one for the team. Pepe is doing well and he is one of those players who wants to get into form straight away. We know how important he is for us on the field. All of the players in defence played at a great level," said Karanka.