Karanka insists German pair Ozil, Khedira big part of Real Madrid future

Real Madrid No2 Aitor Karanka says German midfield pair Mesut Ozil and Sami Khedira are front and centre in coach Jose Mourinho's plans.

Ozil appeared after just 29 minutes, replacing the more defence-minded Lassana Diarra with Madrid 1-0 down, and played a key role as Mourinho's men ran out 6-2 winners.

Khedira, sent off the previous week at Levante, came on approaching the hour mark.

"They are players who were important to the team last season and I'm sure this will also be the case this year," he said.

"Players always go through good times and some not so good times. Ozil demonstrated when he came on against Rayo what a good player he is."

"Sami is coming back from an injury and will certainly be a major player for us. "