Morten Hjulmand

Impressive display in return to XI

Hjulmand had three shots (zero on goal) and one chance created in Saturday's 1-0 win over Espanyol. In addition, he was given a yellow card in the 22nd minute.

Analysis: Hjulmand reminded Atletico what he can offer with a strong return to the starting lineup against Espanyol. The midfielder had barely played in the previous four games after losing ground in the pecking order, but with Koke (hamstring), Johnny Cardoso (illness) sidelined and Marcos Llorente rested, he got the start and controlled the middle of the park with six interceptions, four clearances and two tackles won. He was a threat from set pieces as well, with two of his three shots coming from headers at corners, and he added one chance created. His limited minutes have come with Cardoso and Pablo Barrios the preferred pairing in midfield and both Llorente and Koke also used ahead of him, though with Koke currently sidelined, Hjulmand will hope a display like this moves him up the pecking order.