Real Madrid attacker Karim Benzema has admitted that Los Blancos have missed Luka Modric, who has recently returned from a long-term injury.

Modric had been out of action since last November with a thigh problem, but returned to fitness earlier this month.

The capital outfit struggled for creation during the Croatian's absence, and Benzema has claimed that it is a relief to have the midfielder back and available for the final months of the campaign.

"It was great to have Modric back. He always plays on the attack and that's why he's so important to us. We've missed him," Benzema told Marca following Sunday's 2-1 defeat at Barcelona in El Clasico.

Real Madrid have also been boosted by the news that James Rodriguez has returned to first-team training following a broken foot.