In his 19 games they have conceded just 16 goals - a noticeable improvement on the record over the same period last season.

BBC: Leon Osman and Richard Dunne set good example

He absence had been noticeable, as big-spending Real won just five of 10 matches while he was out, and he also missed Portugal's World Cup playoff victories against Bosnia-Herzegovina.

CNN: Fit-again Ronaldo ready for 'El Clasico'