Diego Simeone confirms Koke will miss clash with Manchester United

Atletico Madrid head coach Diego Simeone has confirmed that club captain Koke will miss Wednesday's Champions League last-16 first leg with Manchester United.

The Spaniard emerged as a major doubt for the clash with the Red Devils after picking up an injury during his side's 3-0 win over Osasuna in the league at the weekend.

Koke was forced to miss training earlier this week with the issue, and Simeone has now revealed that the team's captain will be absent against the 20-time English champions.

"Koke unfortunately is not going to be with us because he's got an injury," Simeone told reporters.

The 30-year-old has made 30 appearances for Atletico during the 2021-22 campaign, providing two assists, and he featured in all six of their matches in this season's group stage.

Koke's absence could mean that Geoffrey Kondogbia features alongside Hector Herrera in the middle, but the Spanish club could have Thomas Lemar available after a positive COVID-19 test.