Gareth Bale has returned to form an important cog in the Real Madrid team, following a spell in which it seemed he was more of an outsider than an influencer on the pitch.
The Welshman ended last season as regular substitute for Los Blancos and was then absent for much of pre-season.
Yet, after contributing well to the team's LaLiga Santander victory against Celta Vigo, Bale could still be a factor in any future success for the team, as he hinted with his performance at Balaidos.
Bale's relationship with coach Zinedine Zidane has been under the microscope, after the Frenchman suggested it might be time for the attacker to leave the club. However, Florentino Perez has continued to back the Welshman.
What is needed is a repeat of Bale's latest performance, and a willingness to work hard and meet his expected level of performance for the rest of the LaLiga Santander season.
The more noble sections of the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu crowd have shown confidence in Bale, who could become part of a rebuilding process at Los Blancos after a disappointing last few months on the field.
His footballing ability is undoubted to those in the dressing room. Instead, the main issues have arisen from Bale's status as one who hasn't integrated into the squad culture.
Yet, even Zidane must concede that Bale should remain a key player.
If Bale has the hunger to repay the faith shown in him, and produce the speed and determination he demonstrated in Galicia, his career at the club could be reborn.