Zidane rules out January signings

Madrid are allowed to sign players until the end of the month, but will then be prevented from registering new players until July 2017 unless an appeal against their ban from FIFA is successful.

Rumours have suggested Madrid could revive their interest in Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea having just failed to complete his signing in August.

However, having coasted to victory in his two games in charge so far, scoring 10 goals in the process, Zidane sees no need to strengthen his squad in the next week.

"It is not necessary. The truth is I am happy with the squad we have," the Frenchman said on Saturday.

"We already have 26 players and it is difficult because there are players that are not in the matchday squad.

"Therefore, if I am happy, I am not going to go looking outwith the squad for what I already have."

Zidane confirmed that captain Sergio Ramos will again miss Sunday's trip to Real Betis due to a calf problem despite returning to training.

Gareth Bale is also set for a three-week spell on the sidelines after suffering the recurrence of a calf problem in the 5-1 thrashing of Sporting Gijon last weekend.

James Rodriguez is the favourite to replace the Welshman and Zidane offered his backing to the Colombian star, who has been benched for Zidane's first two games in charge.

"I am happy with what he is doing, he is working very hard and we know what an important player he is for the team," added Zidane.

"We will see tomorrow (if he starts), but he is ready to play."