Real Madrid went back to the top of La Liga after a comfortable victory against Espanyol with goals from James Rodriguez and Karim Benzema.

Both Rodriguez and Benzema have had a troubled few months at Real Madrid, with both their futures at the club subject to speculation. The return of Morata and the emergence of Lucas Vazquez raised questions about Benzema’s future in the team. The Frenchman was also left out of the national team squad for the European Championship due to his off-field antics.

BARCELONA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 18: Karim Benzema (L) celebrates with his team mate Lucas Vazquez of Real Madrid CF after scoring his team's second goal during the La Liga match between RCD Espanyol and Real Madrid CF at the RCDE stadium on September 18, 2016 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
BARCELONA, SPAIN – SEPTEMBER 18: Karim Benzema (L) celebrates with his team mate Lucas Vazquez of Real Madrid CF after scoring his team’s second goal during the La Liga match between RCD Espanyol and Real Madrid CF at the RCDE stadium on September 18, 2016 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

James, on the other hand, endured a difficult individual campaign last season, where he rarely got to feature under Zidane who chose to have a midfield three of Casemiro, Modric and Kroos. Even Rafa Benitez before him played Isco rather than the Colombian, making him increasingly frustrated.

So it was a pleasant surprise that both of them got on the score-sheet and helped Real Madrid to a historic 16th straight win in the La Liga, taking up responsibility in the absence of Bale and Ronaldo.

The fans were less than pleased with Karim Benzema’s dismal performance on the night, with some calling for Alvaro Morata’s inclusion immediately.

Mere seconds before the first half ended, James Rodriguez found the back of the net. After a summer filled with speculation about his future, the Real Madrid faithful were overjoyed that the Colombian had gotten himself on the score-sheet.

10 minutes after a great effort from Benzema was met by an equally great save from Lopez, the Frenchman finished off a sweeping move to put Los Blancos 2 goals to the good.

Los Blancos set a new record with this victory, and it’s only a sign of great things to come.

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