Real Madrid manager Rafael Benitez has admitted that it is a privilege to have a player of James Rodriguez's calibre in his team.

The 24-year-old Colombian has been frustrated since his return from injury, and seemed to send a message to Benitez when he played for his nation during the international break.

However, Benitez told a press conference that he is delighted to have the former Monaco man available in his squad.

The Spaniard told reporters: "I'm delighted to have a player of James' calibre. I hope he can be at his best in every game, score loads of goals and help Real Madrid to win loads of matches and titles.

"Competition for places is very high here and having players like him is a privilege. My job is to get the best performance out of him in the games he's picked to play in."

Los Blancos head to the Ipurua Municipal Stadium to take on Eibar tomorrow.