Luka Modric had mixed emotions over his playing return for Real Madrid last night.

Modric ended a 114 day absence as he saw action in their Champions League defeat to Schalke.

"The injury has been extremely tough for me, but thanks to God I have recovered, I'm really happy and am on my way back. I felt really emotional coming on tonight, just like I was the first time I played here. I want to thank everyone for the support I received during my injury," said Modric.

"Qualifying to the next stage is really important. We didn't play well but you have to suffer from time to time and hopefully we will grow stronger from this. It can't be up to one player to turn things around, we need to play like a team. When we do that and fight for each other we are an extremely good team and are very dangerous."