CRISTIANO RONALDO is free of injury and set to return for Real against Atletico in tonight's Madrid derby, coach Carlo Ancelotti said yesterday.

The Portuguese striker struggled with a knee injury at the end of last season and has not played since picking up a hamstring strain last month.

But Ancelotti said: "Ronaldo is on top form. He has been training very well these past three weeks and does not have any problems. Last season he had one injury and now another but it's nothing chronic. He is in optimal condition."

The clash at the Bernabeu is a rematch of the season-opening Spanish Super Cup, which La Liga champs Atletico won 2-1 on aggregate, and last season's Champions League final, which Real won 4-1.

It is also a chance for Real's new signing Javier Hernandez to make his debut after joining on loan from Manchester United. Ancelotti suggested the Mexico forward, nicknamed Chicarito, may come off the bench at some point.

The Italian said: "We are very happy with him. He won't play from the start tomorrow but will be of use during the game."

Another Real signing, James Rodriguez, has so far failed to reproduce the form that won him the World Cup Golden Boot with six goals for Colombia.

Ancelotti admitted the former Monaco star had not settled in yet but added: "It's clear that a new player needs time to adapt.

"I am pleased with what he has done so far. It's normal that he might have the odd problem at the start."

Barcelona, the only team to have won both of their opening league games, will host Athletic Bilbao on Saturday night at the Nou Camp.

Manager Luis Enrique said his superstar forwards Lionel Messi and Neymar have both recovered from minor injuries and he had almost a complete squad to choose from.

"Neymar is in optimal condition, like almost all the players," Luis Enrique revealed.

"Messi has been working on the sidelines all week and later on joined his team mates.

Midfielder Andres Iniesta and defenders Thomas Vermaelen and Jeremy Mathieu have also been struggling with niggles but all trained yesterday and will be available for selection.