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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
World
Luke Bosher

Eden Hazard set for Real Madrid debut against Levante after returning to full training

Eden Hazard is set to make his Real Madrid debut against Levante this weekend after the former Chelsea returned to full training.

Hazard featured for Madrid in pre-season after completing his £88.5m summer move, but a thigh injury has seen him miss out on Madrid’s first three La Liga games.

The imminent debut of the Belgian will be welcomed by manager Zinedine Zidane, with the Spanish giants picking up only five points from games against Celta Vigo, Valladolid and Villareal. 

After beating Celta in their opener, draws and stodgy performances against Valladolid and Villareal have already raised question marks about Madrid’s abilities going forward.

With Isco injured, Gareth Bale suspended and Luka Jovic not favoured, Madrid look to be lacking in creativity - meaning Hazard will be expected to deliver immediately by the ever-impatient Madridistas. 

James Rodriguez also joined the ex-Chelsea player in training on Tuesday, after the Colombian suffered an injury on his return to the Madrid team against Valladolid.

James had been on loan at Bayern Munich for the last two seasons and was expected to leave Madrid this summer, but no move materialised and he appears to be part of Zidane’s plans.

Eden Hazard poses at his Real Madrid unveiling (EPA)

The attacking pair were pictured at training with the remainder of Real Madrid’s squad that were not on international duty, alongside ex-Manchester City prospect Brahim Diaz who is also coming back from injury.  

It remains to be seen whether Zidane will risk any of his returning stars against Levante, but his desire for results may outweigh his desire ease players back from injury.

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