Real Madrid defender Marcelo suffers thigh injury
Monday 23 November 2015 16:24, UK
Real Madrid have been dealt a further blow after the defeat to arch-rivals Barcelona, with the news that Marcelo damaged a thigh muscle during the match.
Real were outclassed in a 4-0 reverse at the Bernabeu, with Brazil international Marcelo limping out of the game after 59 minutes.
The full-back is now facing a spell on the sidelines and has not been included in the squad for the trip to play Shakhtar Donetsk in Champions League Group A on Wednesday.
Spanish media has reported Marcelo will be out of action for two or three weeks, but Real have not confirmed the length of his absence.
Madrid captain Sergio Ramos was also left out of the squad for the Shakhtar game, when the 10-times European champions can make sure of top spot in the section, having already qualified for the last 16.
The central defender has been struggling with a shoulder injury but played the whole of the 'Clasico'.
Under-pressure Real boss Rafa Benitez is taking just five recognised defenders to Ukraine.
Pepe is likely to start alongside Raphael Varane in the middle, with Daniel Carvajal and Nacho at right and left-back respectively.
