Marginalised in Madrid - James the star of the show for Colombia

The Real attacker has seen his playing time restricted in the Spanish capital but is the leading man of Colombia's epic journey, lighting the way to Russia 2018.

James Rodriguez may not be the star of the Real Madrid show, but it is he who is leading the finest generation his country has seen since the great Carlos Valderrama-led side of the 1990’s. 

His blossoming from promising youngster to global superstar arrived following the appointment of Argentinian coach Jose Pekerman, who has overseen the re-emergence of Colombia as real contenders on the international stage. 

And it is James who will be tasked with adding to the lone major title in the nation’s history, a Copa America triumph on home soil in 2001.

It is he who has inspired the side to the three consecutive victories that have got their World Cup qualifying campaign back on track.

Last time out, he made and scored the other as Colombia saw off Venezuela 2-0, taking his tally to six in World Cup qualifiers for his country. And they are making the difference, too, with five wins and one draw from the six matches in which he has found the net.