Real key trio in doubt for Champions League clash

Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho is preparing for Tuesday’s crucial Champions League match against Tottenham without Cristiano Ronaldo.

Mourinho’s side host Tottenham in the first leg of a Champions League quarter-final but in addition to Ronaldo’s likely absence, the Portuguese boss is also likely to be without in-form striker Karim Benzema and Marcelo.

The trio did not train with the senior squad on Friday morning, meaning they are also expected to miss Saturday’s La Liga fixture against Sporting Gijon.

“According to the information that I have from the medical service, Cristiano can only play at Bilbao (on April 9),” Mourinho said.

“Marcelo can only play at Bilbao and Karim (Benzema) can only play at Bilbao.”

Ronaldo’s absence could be the most damaging for Real in a match where the hosts will be expected to take the game to their opposition, due to the fact the second leg will be held in London.

He has suffered a recurrence of a thigh injury – something that is also plaguing Benzema after he picked up the problem in France’s 0-0 friendly draw with Croatia in Paris on Thursday.

Marcelo’s problem is less serious, but sore ribs are set to sideline him for the next week.