Mallorca hit by Nadal blow

The veteran stopper picked up the injury during a training session ahead of his side's league encounter against Malaga, and will definitely sit out the Copa Del Rey clash with Real Madrid this week.

Initial tests have shown that the former Barcelona star will not need to undergo surgery for the problem, although no time-frame has been set on his recovery period.

The news comes as a blow for Mallorca boss Sergio Kresic who has already lost fellow centre back Javier Olaizola to a long term injury this term.

Argentine Federico Lussenhoff took Nadal's place for Sunday's league game at Malaga, though rumours are abound that Kresic might move for a reinforcement in the shape of former Mallorca player, and Newcastle misfit, Marcelino.

The 31-year-old was recently released by The Magpies after a nightmare spell on Tyneside, and admitted of the Mallorca link: "It is a possible accord."