The Real Madrid coach looks set to hand the Manchester United loanee his first start since joining the club as the Frenchman continues to struggle in front of goal

Carlo Ancelotti has hinted that Karim Benzema will be dropped for Real Madrid's midweek clash with Elche, with Javier Hernandez expected to take his place up front.

The French striker has scored just twice in 637 competitive minutes this season, while Manchester United loanee Hernandez has now scored the same amount in 50 minutes since arriving at the Santiago Bernabeu following his double off the bench in Saturday's 8-2 win over Deportivo La Coruna.

And Ancelotti has hinted the Mexico international could be rewarded for his excellent display with a start on Tuesday.

"If tomorrow Karim does not play, he will understand," Ancelotti told reporters on Monday. "Against Deportivo he played very well.

"[But] We will change something tomorrow.

"For me it was important that Chicharito scored. He struck twice and has confidence now. We felt comfortable with him in our team. I do not look at who scores and who doesn't score, I look how effective my overall attack is.

"Our attack is much better right now, we just need to improve our defensive play. I think we are better than last year."

Ancelotti also confirmed that Cristiano Ronaldo would start in Tuesday's Liga game as he "is on a hot streak" and has no fitness issues right now.

Pepe, however, will not play a part at the Santiago Bernabeu, while Sergio Ramos is 50/50 after missing out on Monday morning's training session.