Tuesday, 11th February, 2014
Real Madrid have received a huge boost to their season's hopes after Raphael Varane was declared fit to play, after an injury break of more than three months.
Varane had a torrid time in the first half of the season, culminating in a knee injury, even though he did manage to play for France in their World Cup playoff second leg.
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The 20-year-old last featured in the league for Real Madrid in early November, but is poised to make a return in tonight's Copa del Rey semi-final.
Real Madrid hold a 3-0 advantage over Atletico Madrid from the first leg, and it provides ideal conditions for Varane's comeback.
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"We have no problems," coach Carlo Ancelotti told a press conference. "Varane will play.
"Varane needs to play. He has everything it takes to be a good defender: quality, speed, tactical awareness, good positioning, and enthusiasm.
"It is important that he has recovered well because the other centre-backs get a chance to rest."
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