Madrid's James: Bernabeu return a unique feeling

James Rodriguez started a Real Madrid match for the first time since May 2017 as Los Blancos drew 1-1 at home to Real Valladolid.

James Rodriguez started a Madrid match for the first time since May 2017.

Real Madrid playmaker James Rodriguez said returning to play at the Santiago Bernabeu was a "unique feeling".

James started a Madrid match for the first time since May 2017 as Los Blancos drew 1-1 at home to Real Valladolid in LaLiga action on Saturday.

The Colombia star spent the last two seasons out on loan with Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich, which opted against triggering its option to buy.

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James looked poised to join either Atletico Madrid or Napoli, however, the 28-year-old played 57 minutes for Zinedine Zidane's men in the Spanish capital.

"Back at the Bernabeu after a long time," James wrote on Twitter post-match.

"It was a unique feeling. Thanks to the fans for the support.

"We will continue to work in order to improve."

James made 20 Bundesliga appearances for Bayern last season, scoring seven goals.

He also scored seven league goals in 23 Bundesliga matches during the 2017-18 after helping Madrid to Champions League glory the season prior.