Bale, Modric to miss Atletico return leg

Real Madrid suffered a double injury blow as Spanish media reported on Sunday that both Gareth Bale and Luka Modric have been ruled out of their decisive Champions League quarter-final, second leg against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday.

Both players limped off during Saturday's 3-1 win over Malaga with Bale suffering a left calf problem after less than five minutes and Modric injuring his right knee on the hour.

Real boss Carlo Ancelotti refused to rule out the former Spurs duo for Atletico's visit immediately after the match.

However, Madrid sports daily Marca reported that both players left the Santiago Bernabeu on crutches and could be set for several weeks on the sidelines.

Modric's injury is expected to be the more serious as it was reported he has sprained knee ligaments.

The Croatian has only recently returned from a five-month injury lay-off and his presence has coincided with Madrid's upturn in form in recent weeks.

Real and Atletico are locked at 0-0 after the first leg last week in a repeat of last season's Champions League final.

Real were victorious on that occasion, 4-1 after extra time, but they have been unable to beat Atletico in seven attempts this campaign.
Source: AFP