Ruud van Nistelrooy In Strong Real Madrid Copa del Rey Squad

Ruud van Nistelrooy could make his second comeback of the season on Tuesday evening in the Copa del Rey. He is primed to partner Karim Benzema up front.

The Dutch striker has been named in the squad for the first leg of the tie against Segunda B minnows Alcorcon and will be hoping to be given a chance to play.

While Benzema missed the weekend encounter with Sporting de Gijon with a knock, Van Nistelrooy has been out since making his return to action in September.

After spending the majority of last season injured, the former Manchester United star made a goalscoring comeback in September against Xerez only to suffer another setback.

Coach Manuel Pellegrini has opted to give Iker Casillas, Kaka, Sergio Ramos and Xabi Alonso a rest, but has otherwise named a strong squad for the encounter.

Several top flight clubs choose to give youngsters a chance to move up, but Madrid will field a side that includes only goalkeeper Antonio Adan from the youth ranks.

Real Madrid squad
Goalkeepers: Dudek, Adan
Defenders: Metzelder, Arbeloa, Albiol, Garay, Marcelo
Midfielders: Van der Vaart, Drenthe, Granero, Guti, Gago, Diarra
Forwards: Raul, Benzema, Van Nistelrooy