James Rodriquez is staying, says Zidane

Real Madrid head coach Zinedine Zidane has insisted forward James Rodriguez is staying at the club following an impressive cameo performance off the bench during Real’s 2-1 La Liga victory over Celta Vigo.

Zidane was happy with his player’s contribution, feeling he made the difference in the match, with reports suggesting a move away from the Bernabeu for the Colombian before the end of the transfer window.

On Saturday’s performance, admitted his side were far from brilliant during their hard-fought 2-1 victory over Celta Vigo in Liga, as they required a late Toni Kroos goal after Fabien Orellana cancelled out Alvaro Morata’s opener.

The Frenchman admitted Celta were ‘more complicated’ opponents than he expected as they seemed to catch the home side by surprise at the Bernabeu, but he is confident his team will perform better after the international break.

Real Madrid play Osasuna next in La Liga on September 10 and then host Sporting Lisbon the following Wednesday in the Champions League as they look to defend their title.