Nacho and Casemiro add to Real Madrid injury crisis

Real Madrid are facing a deepening injury crisis after it was confirmed that both Nacho and Casemiro are set for spells on the sidelines.

Brazil international midfielder Casemiro was forced off inside the opening 20 minutes of the Blancos' 4-2 win over Celta Vigo on Sunday, with the Santiago Bernabeu outfit confirming he has suffered a sprained ankle.

The issue is likely to keep him out for up to three weeks, and although the international break will ease the burden on Santiago Solari's squad somewhat, he could still miss upcoming clashes against Eibar and Roma.

Nacho, meanwhile, is reportedly set to be out until January after it was confirmed he suffered a knee ligament injury in the second half at Balaidos.

He joins fellow defenders Raphael Varane and Jesus Vallejo in the treatment room, leaving Sergio Ramos as the only fit senior centre-back left at Solari's disposal.

Academy graduate Javi Sanchez stepped off the bench at the weekend, and he could be brought in to partner Ramos when Madrid return to action on November 24.

Dani Carvajal and Marcelo are also currently working their way back to fitness, and with full-back Sergio Reguillon having been forced off at half-time against Celta with an as yet unspecified injury, there is a real danger of Madrid running out of experienced defenders.

There is some good news for Madrid fans, however, as forward Mariano Diaz is expected to return after the break in domestic fixtures as the Blancos look to continue their resurgence following the sacking of Julen Lopetegui.

Four wins under Solari's stewardship have seen them climb to within four points of La Liga leaders Barcelona while they are on the cusp of qualification for the Champions League knockout stages.