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James Rodriguez in apparent 'fitness' dig at Rafa Benitez after Colombia goal

Colombia's James Rodriguez celebrates after scoring
Image: Colombia's James Rodriguez celebrates after scoring against Chile

​James Rodriguez appeared to aim a dig in the direction of Real Madrid boss Rafael Benitez after scoring for Colombia in their World Cup qualifier against Chile on Thursday.

The 24-year-old played 90 minutes for his country and cancelled out Arturo Vidal's opener as they drew 1-1 in Santiago, despite Benitez's claims he was not fit enough to play a full game for Real Madrid.

Asked about his fitness after the game against Chile, Rodriguez claimed he was "totally fine", before adding, "and yet some people keep saying I'm not fit".

Rodriguez has struggled with an injury this season and made his first Real appearance since August as a second-half substitute against Sevilla last Sunday, scoring a late consolation goal as Real were beaten 3-2.

Following the defeat, Benitez said: "James wasn't fit to play more than 30 minutes. He has a long way to go to get back to his best."

In response, Rodriguez said: "When I'm not in the squad, I suffer a lot."

 Head coach Rafa Benitez of Real Madrid
Image: Rafa Benitez previously said Rodriguez was not fit enough to play 90 minutes

James' Colombia side currently sit fifth in South American qualifying for the 2018 World Cup in Russia, and next host struggling Argentina on Tuesday.

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His first game on his return to Real Madrid will be the El Clasico clash with Barcelona on November 21, before a trip to Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League.

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