Real Madrid: It’s time for Marco Asensio to start

(L-R) Marcelo of Real Madrid, Marco Asensio of Real Madrid during the UEFA Champions League round of 16 match between Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium on February 14, 2018 in Madrid, Spain(Photo by VI Images via Getty Images)
(L-R) Marcelo of Real Madrid, Marco Asensio of Real Madrid during the UEFA Champions League round of 16 match between Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium on February 14, 2018 in Madrid, Spain(Photo by VI Images via Getty Images)
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Despite a successful result against PSG at home on Wednesday night, there are still concerns about the Real Madrid attack force. With fans still bemoaning the sometimes wasteful performances and lack of excitement as well as the continued slump of individuals such as Karim Benzema, has the time come for Marco Asensio to shine once more?

He put in an incredible performance in his 11-minute cameo – we’ve seen his potential, now it’s time to buy into it.

14th February 2018, Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid, Spain; UEFA Champions League football, round of 16, first leg, Real Madrid versus PSG; Marco Asensio (Real Madrid) drives forward on the ball (Photo by Shot for Press/Action Plus via Getty Images)
14th February 2018, Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid, Spain; UEFA Champions League football, round of 16, first leg, Real Madrid versus PSG; Marco Asensio (Real Madrid) drives forward on the ball (Photo by Shot for Press/Action Plus via Getty Images)

Difference maker:

Subbed in at the 79th minute of the game with the score locked at 1-1, PSG were looking to control the remainder of the game and take the draw as it stood back to the Parc De Princes.

With Isco making way for Asensio, it only took him four minutes to make an impact – darting down the left side after collecting Gareth Bale’s pass, he sped toward the edge of the box, taking it to the byline and forcing a cross which led to Ronaldo knocking in the goal to make it 2-1.

Despite not registering the assist, Asensio left Dani Alves and Meunier respectively struggling to cope with his quick runs and ankle-breaking agility. Following that, he then assisted Marcelo with a clever ball just three minutes after he forced the error which led to Ronaldo’s goal.

We’ve seen Marco step up numerous times in big games over the past year. Whether he chips in with a goal, or an assist, or even just generally causing a nuisance for his opposing defender.

He was the difference maker against Valencia earlier this season when he bagged 2 goals, he was the difference maker against Leganes with his late goal in the Copa Del Rey to win the game in the 89th minute.

He’s proven himself more than useful in some of the biggest moments made available to him.