Real Madrid centre-back Raphael Varane has revealed his delight after returning to the fold in Tuesday's 2-0 win over Atletico Madrid in the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey.
The French international had been out of action since November with a knee injury, but played the full 90 minutes as Los Blancos booked their spot in the final with a 5-0 aggregate victory.
"The knee has responded," Varane told reporters.
"I think it's good and I felt good. I am very happy after so long without playing. It's a joy.
"It's hard when you're not playing but I worked hard and now I'm back. I'll see how my knee responds to this match, see if there's any swelling tomorrow. Gradually I'll be back in full."
Varane joined Real Madrid from Lens in 2011.
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