Report: Cristiano Ronaldo winning El Clasico fitness battle

Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo is on course to be fit for Saturday's El Clasico showdown with Barcelona, according to a report.

The Portugal international was forced to sit out training at the start of the week after injuring his calf during the 1-0 win over Gremio last weekend.

Ronaldo, who scored the winner in that Club World Cup final clash, was seen as a major fitness doubt for what is essentially a must-win match against league leaders Barcelona.

After taking part in a light session away from his teammates on Thursday afternoon, however, Sky Sports News suggests that the 32-year-old will be available for selection.

Fit-again forward Ousmane Dembele took part in Barcelona training earlier today, meanwhile, but boss Ernesto Valverde will not risk him this side of the winter break following a long-term layoff.