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Real Madrid's Zinedine Zidane: 'I have nothing against James Rodriguez'

Zinedine Zidane played down James Rodriguez's reaction at being substituted during Real Madrid's 4-2 win against Leganes and said "it's over now."

James, who scored the opening goal, banged the back of the dugout after being withdrawn in the 72nd minute of a rare start in La Liga.

But Zidane said he understood the frustration and would not be taking any extra action.

"We did not speak about it, but it is normal when you come off," Zidane said. "You want to play the 90 minutes. So these things can happen, but it's over now. I will remember just that he played a good game."

When asked if James, who has regularly been linked with a move away from Los Blancos, was becoming a problem Zidane added that he is happy with the Colombia international's contribution to the team.

"I'm smiling because you always ask me the same question," Zidane said. "And I'll tell you straight -- I don't have any problem with James -- I have nothing against him, quite the opposite.

"It's true that he regularly gets taken off but that's because he is a forward and there are the first to be substituted because they are the ones who work hardest. I'm happy with James.

"It's normal for him to feel upset when he gets taken off but it's not a big deal. I try to do what is best for the team. James is important for us -- just like the rest are and he is going to continue being important for me, for the team and for everyone."