Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos has been ruled out of Wednesday’s Champions League clash with Liverpool at Anfield.
The Spanish defender has been suffering with a calf injury of late and will not be risked by boss Carlo Ancelotti as he keeps on eye on this weekend’s El Clasico encounter with Barcelona.
Ramos will not travel to England, leaving Raphael Varane expected to partner Portuguese defender Pepe at the heart of the defence.
The centre-back joins Welshman Gareth Bale, who is also expected to miss Real’s big clashes with Liverpool and Barcelona as the former Saints and Spurs man is suffering from muscle problems.
The Welshman is a major doubt for the El Clasico on Saturday – a game where Barcelona new boy Luis Suarez could make his first start.