Preview: Osasuna vs. Real Madrid

Real Madrid will be seeking their third win in a row in all competitions when they take on Osasuna away from home in La Liga on Saturday.

The defending Spanish champions have returned to form in the New Year, defeating Real Sociedad 4-3 at home in the league before dismissing Celta Vigo 4-0 in the Copa del Rey.

Last weekend's victory over the Basque club saw Madrid remain third in the table, five points behind second-placed Atletico Madrid and 16 points behind leaders Barcelona.

Jose Mourinho's side will be confident of winning in Pamplona on Saturday, as their opponents Osasuna are at the foot of the table with just 14 points from 18 matches.

However, Los Blancos will be without defender Sergio Ramos, who has been given a five-match ban for his sending-off and subsequent reaction against Celta on Wednesday.

Fellow centre-back Pepe is also out with injury, while full-back Marcelo is still recovering. However, Fabio Coentrao made a full return to training on Thursday and could start against Osasuna.

Iker Casillas will continue to start in goal for Madrid, as Antonio Adan is suspended.

Recent form

Osasuna: DWLDLL Real Madrid: LWWDLW

Possible starting lineups

Osasuna: Fernandez; Bertran, Gonzalez, Flano, Damia; Punal, Oier; Cejudo, Martinez, Armenteros; Sola

Real Madrid: Casillas; Coentrao, Varane, Carvalho, Arbeloa; Khedira, Alonso; Callejon, Ozil, Ronaldo; Benzema

Sports Mole says: 0-4