Real moved nine points clear of second-placed Barcelona following last weekend's 3-2 home win over Villarreal, who despite being third in the standings are themselves now 15 points adrift of top spot.

It is a far cry to last season - Van Nistelrooy's first at the Spanish giants - when Real always seemed to be playing catch-up to leaders Barca before sneaking the title in dramatic fashion on the final of the day of the campaign.

"When the league started in August I have to say that I could not imagine that we would be nine points ahead in January, but this is the reality," Van Nistelrooy said.

However, the Dutchman insists the title is not done and dusted yet, and warned his team-mates they cannot afford to rest on their laurels.

"This difference in points seems a lot, but there are still 17 games remaining and 51 points to play for, and as such we cannot let our performances slip.

"We only have to think about ourselves and maintain concentration."

Van Nistelrooy also has his sights set on winning the Pichichi award as the top goalscorer in La Liga for the second year in succession.

The former Manchester United striker, who netted 25 times last season, is currently on 12 goals, two behind leading duo Luis Fabiano of Sevilla and Real Zaragoza's Diego Milito, who finished runner-up last year with 23.

"Of course I will fight to be the top goalscorer for another year," he said in AS.

"We are good as a team, we are playing better every day, we have opportunities, and as such I hope to score many more."

When comparing his second season at Madrid to his first, Van Nistelrooy added: "I am going as well as last year. Only my last few months at Manchester United were not good due to my problems with (Sir Alex) Ferguson, but now I feel better than ever."