Rafa Benitez’ defensive crisis has eased slightly after Real Madrid left back Marcelo returned to training.
The Brazilian, a stalwart of the Los Blancos defence missed the games against Shakhtar Donesk and Eibar after picking up a thigh problem in the 4-0 home loss to Barcelona 10 days ago.
The 27-year-old was back on the training ground on Monday though as Benitez put his team through the paces ahead of the Copa del Rey game against Cadiz this week. Marcelo though is unlikely to be risked for that match and will probably make a return to first team action at the weekend when the 10-time Champions League winners take on Getafe at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Real have suffered somewhat of a defensive crisis in recent weeks. Sergio Ramos has had ongoing issues since dislocating his shoulder earlier this season. Raphael Varane picked up a hamstring problem against Shakhtar and is expected to be out of action for another fortnight. Daniel Carvajal also picked up a knock in the win in Ukraine but is fit again.
Centre back Nacho Fernandez should keep his place alongside Pepe in the heart of the defence for the game in Andalucia on Wednesday, while Benitez also has veteran defender Alvaro Arbeloa to call on if needed.
