Hazard and Bale in contention for Real Madrid ahead of Atletico derby

Eden Hazard and Gareth Bale are in contention to return for Real Madrid in Saturday’s derby against Atletico Madrid.

Belgium forward Hazard was beginning to show signs of his best form after a big-money move from Chelsea before an ankle injury sustained in November curtailed his momentum, with a hamstring issue having seen him miss large chunks earlier in the campaign.

Hazard returned to training last week and head coach Zinedine Zidane said he could be involved in El Derbi, though did not make any guarantees.

When asked about his availability, Zidane replied: “Hazard has been training with us all week.

“He could be included but we will never take any risks.”

 That control and finish by @Benzema!#RMCity | #HalaMadrid pic.twitter.com/2N97lkweme

— Real Madrid C.F.  (@realmadriden) January 30, 2020

Bale twisted his ankle in a 3-1 Copa del Rey triumph over Unionistas de Salamanca last week and missed wins over Real Valladolid and Real Zaragoza.

Zidane, though, again kept his cards close to his chest when asked if the Wales forward will face Atleti.

“It’s the same question, I’m not going to say who’s going to play because it’s something personal,” Zidane added. 

“All players are prepared and then we’ll see what happens.

“We have 25 players and the good thing is that they are all involved. Then I am the one to choose because I am the coach. Since we have 25, the complicated thing is the call for the 18. All I want is for the players to be focused and prepared.”

Bale’s future at the Santiago Bernabeu was once again a topic of discussion with reports suggesting he could make a return to Tottenham on loan.

However, Zidane is not expecting such a scenario on deadline day.

“Gareth is here with us and I am counting on him. I am not contemplating this possibility,” Zidane said.