Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said it was a big blow to lose Luka Modric to a long-term injury, but he hopes to have Sami Khedira fit to take his place in midfield against Eibar today.

Khedira has made few starts this season, having suffered with a succession of injuries and been out of favour for not signing a new deal.

Yet the door has reopened for the Germany international after Modric picked up a thigh injury playing for Croatia against Italy last Sunday that could sideline him for three months.

Ancelotti appears to have earmarked Khedira to replace Modric, who has been a key player for Real as they moved two points clear at the top of La Liga.

“The loss (of Modric) is important and he is now recovering. We don’t know exactly when he will be ready to return but we should have some news in the next few days,” Ancelotti told a news conference.

“I am not sure yet who will now play instead of him. I have the classic option of Khedira or otherwise I can pick Isco. Khedira has played two consecutive matches after injury and so it depends whether he is fit. If he is ready then I will play him, if not then it will be Isco.”