Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti admits James Rodriguez has surprised him and his staff.

James has been a revelation since his return from a foot injury.

Ancelotti said: "He has surprised all of us. He is a top quality player and has gelled very well with the team. He has played in a number of different positions and is having an extremely good season. He has helped the team out a lot and is a very humble player. He is fresh and his time sidelined with injury has helped him in this regard.

"He is a hugely talented player and he also possesses a durable physique not often found in great talents. He has gotten used to playing in a deeper role which requires him to cover more ground. That is what has surprised me most. Some people adjust to new footballing ideas and new environments very quickly. Others need more time to get used to this playing style."