Real Madrid's Gareth Bale ruled out of Champions League clash with Roma

Real Madrid winger Gareth Bale has been ruled out of his side's Champions League clash with Roma on Wednesday night.

The 26-year-old has struggled with a persistent calf injury this season and has not featured for Los Blancos since a 5-1 win over Sporting Gijon on January 17.

Bale recently suffered a setback in his recovery from the problem, and reports have suggested that Madrid are unsure as to how much longer they will be without the world's most expensive player.

He will not be available when Real travel to the Italian capital to take on Roma in the first leg of their last-16 tie, however, as Zinedine Zidane takes charge of a game in Europe's premier club competition for the first time.

Madrid are bidding for a record 11th European Cup in this season's competition.