Having lost both matches in 2015, La Liga leaders Real Madrid will be desperate to return to winning ways when they host Espanyol at Santiago Bernabeu.

Los Periquitos are also winless in the New Year, but they are all too aware that the pressure is on los Blancos alone in this match.

Bar the early season struggles, Real Madrid have been absolutely brilliant this term, with their record of 22 wins in a row unlikely to be broken any time soon.

The amazing winning streak was always going to come to an end, but los Blancos probably did not expect to lose two games in a row.

Despite taking the lead through Cristiano Ronaldo, Carlo Ancelotti’s charges were beaten by Valencia in the first league match in 2015, but the loss did not prove costly as title rivals Barcelona also lost.

However, Real Madrid also went on to suffer a 2-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the first leg of Copa del Rey Last 16 stage, and no doubt los Blancos will be under pressure when they host Espanyol on Saturday.

But, having won last nine matches at their Santiago Bernabeu, it is hardly surprising los Merengues have been made 1.10 (1/10) favourites to claim maximum points.

Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo will be recalled after he was rested in midweek and he is 1.40 (2/5) to score anytime.

Luka Modric and Daniel Carvajal are out through injury and suspension respectively, but Iker Casillas, Sergio Ramos and Cristiano Ronaldo return.

Probable starting line-up (4-3-3): Casillas – Arbeloa, Pepe, Ramos, Marcelo – Isco, Kroos, Rodriguez – Bale, Benzema, Ronaldo.

Espanyol did not enjoy such a good start to the season and they found themselves very close to the danger zone midway through November.

Los Periquitos then finally hit the ground running, winning impressive five of six games in all competitions to kick-start their season.

Nevertheless, it appears that the players were partying hard during the holidays as Espanyol were beaten at home by Eibar last weekend, although the final scoreline was a bit harsh on Sergio Gonzalez’s men.

Los Periquitos then produced a very good performance in the Copa del Rey clash against Valencia, but again had to settle for a narrow defeat.

Espanyol players will still have something to build on when they face Real at the Bernabeu, although they will need to be at their very best to get something from the game.

The visitors will have Carlos Stuani and Lucas Vazquez back from suspension, meaning boss Sergio will have fully fit squad to choose from.

Probable starting line-up (4-4-2): Casilla – Arbilla, Colotto, Bertrand, Fuentes – Vazquez, A. Gonzalez, V. Sanchez, Salva Sevilla – Sergio Garcia, Caicedo.