Real Madrid: Karim Benzema a doubt for Atletico Madrid clash

AS reports the France international suffered a sprained knee in last week’s 0-0 and, having sat out Saturday’s win over Malaga, is still a doubt for the visit of Los Colchoneros.

It had been said that Benzema would be able to return when Atletico go to Santiago Bernabeu but AS say a decision on his availability won’t be taken until the day of the game.

The pain in Benzema’s knee is said to have subsided since he first suffered the injury but he is still struggling, the knee remains bandaged and he again missed training on Sunday, working instead in the gym.

Benzema is understood to have said privately that he will be ready as he is a quick healer, and is willing to ‘grit his teeth’ and get through the game if need be, although AS cite a source as saying that if the game was before Wednesday, Benzema would have no chance of playing.

AS also point out that Benzema played through the pain in the Champions League final of May last year, despite having a torn abductor.

Madrid are definitely without Luka Modric and Gareth Bale, who were injured in the Malaga victory, while Marcelo is suspended.

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