Real Madrid confirm fresh Gareth Bale injury problem

Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane has confirmed that he will once again be without forward Gareth Bale for Saturday evening's trip to face Athletic Bilbao.

The 28-year-old returned from a two-month layoff in the midweek Copa del Rey clash against third-tier side Fuenlabrada, playing a part in both of his side's goals in the 2-2 draw.

Wales international Bale has been left out of the squad to take on Athletic at San Mames this weekend, however, with what Zidane describes as a minor injury recurrence picked up in midweek.

"It is nothing serious, it is just a niggle and, as always, we don't want to take any risks," he told reporters. "Gareth's problem is that he is a very strong, very powerful player and he needs to feel right to play.

"As in many previous occasions, it is the calf. It is a tough time for him right now, but we will come through it and all the people around Gareth have to show him a lot of affection until he is better.

"We can't forget he is an important player for us and when he is fit, he is phenomenal. We need to be patient."

Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema are expected to retain their places in a two-man attack, aiming to improve on their combined tally of four league goals so far this season.