Isco issues thinly veiled attack on Zinedine Zidane over Real Madrid minutes after inspired Spain hat-trick

The 25-year-old has played 29 times this season with 18 of those coming as starts, but has only completed a full match on four occasions

Isco was on fine form for Spain in their mauling of Argentina (Getty)

Fresh from scoring an inspired hat-trick in Spain’s 6-1 dismantling of Argentina, Isco has bemoaned the lack of playing time he is currently receiving at Real Madrid in what was a thinly-veiled swipe at manager Zinedine Zidane.

The 25-year-old has played 29 times this season with 18 of those coming as starts, but has only completed a full match on four occasions.

“He shows his confidence in me with the number of minutes and games he gives me,” Isco said of Zidane. “At Real Madrid I don’t have the kind of confidence that a footballer needs; maybe the problem is me and it’s just the way it is with the amount of good footballers there are there. Of course, I want to show Zidane I can be counted on.”

Isco, who was a key figure for Madrid at the start of the season, has been struggling for a regular run in the side since the winter break, partly due to Gareth Bale’s return to fitness.

“When a player isn’t a key part of his team or isn’t getting regular games, it’s matches like these with the national side that give you life,” Isco said.

“The boss here (Lopetegui) believes in me, I’m happy to work hard, improve to try and become a starter for club and country. I want to show I’m a good player.”