Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho is expecting his injury-hit squad to be fully tested by derby rivals Rayo Vallecano this weekend.
Mourinho has been forced to call upon reserve team players Joselu and Jesus Fernandez with Karim Benzema, Lassana Diarra, Angel di Maria, Nuri Sahin and Hamit Altintop forced to watch from the sidelines due to injuries.
The Portuguese is therefore way of the threat posed by ninth-placed Rayo as Madrid look to consolidate their 10-point advantage over Barcelona in La Liga.
"I expect a tough opponent [Rayo Vallecano] and a tough game," said Mourinho. "They have a philosophy of attacking play but a little different at home.
"They are a team who are not afraid of anyone and I really like how they played last season, coping with many difficulties. I'm happy for [Jose Ramon] Sandoval who is doing a brilliant job.
"It may be difficult to predict how the match will go. However, there can be no excuses, we must not lose our philosophy of play.
"The field is small but within regulatory measures. What I care about is my team, not the opponents or the pitch."
