Real Madrid chiefs 'unhappy with Zinedine Zidane over James Rodriguez'

Real Madrid chiefs are reportedly unhappy with Zinedine Zidane's handling of James Rodriguez as the attacker continues to impress for Everton in the Premier League.

The 29-year-old was allowed to leave the Bernabeu for Everton in September, and he has been in strong form for the Toffees this term, scoring three times and contributing four assists in six outings in all competitions.

According to AS, Madrid's hierarchy have 'shown their disappointment' towards Zidane, with the Frenchman deeming Rodriguez surplus to requirements over the summer.

The report claims that certain figures believe that Gareth Bale, Dani Ceballos and Sergio Reguilon could also have been useful players for the La Liga champions during the 2020-21 campaign.

Bale and Ceballos joined Tottenham and Arsenal respectively on loan over the summer, while Reguilon was allowed to complete a permanent move to Spurs despite impressing at Sevilla last term.

Rodriguez made 125 appearances for Madrid in all competitions, but the Colombia international only featured on 14 occasions for the club last term as he struggled to earn Zidane's trust.