By Ameenu Shardow
Ghana midfielder Michael Essien was an unused substitute in Real Madridââ¬â¢s 4-3 win over Real Valladolid on Saturday.
The on-loan Chelsea player was being given a rest after impressing in midweekââ¬â¢s Champions League win over Borussia Dortmund.
Essien had just returned from a muscle injury to play the entire duration of the win against the Germans despite Real Madrid failing to overturn their first leg defeat to progress to the finals of the prestigious competition.
Spanish youngster Nacho was rather the preferred choice at right-back where Essien has thrived in recent games.
Los Blancos were however made to work for the win with a brace from Cristiano Ronaldo, one from Kaka and an own goals from Marc Valiente secured the win against Valladolid who scored three goals through; Osacar Gonzalez, Javi Guerra and Lluis Sastre.
Madrid remain second in La Liga but eight points adrift leaders Barcelona who have a game in hand.