Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has ruled Gareth Bale out of Wednesday's Copa del Rey fourth-round clash with Olimpic de Xativa.
The Italian has revealed that Angel di Maria will start at the Bernabeu in a match that is still level after a goalless draw in the first leg last week.
"Gareth has picked up a small injury during training and will not be available for Wednesday's game," Ancelotti told reporters at a press conference.
"Di Maria will take his place in the starting XI. Angel didn't play well against Osasuna, but he will get another chance on Wednesday.
"We will have to wait and see how Bale's injury develops, but I do not expect any problems for Sunday's game against Valencia."
Bale has had a number of injury problems in the early stages of his Madrid career.
Written by
Matt Law
Matt Law
