Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane expects to be without the services of Welsh forward Gareth Bale for a long period of time.

Bale damaged tendons in his right ankle during Tuesday’s 2-1 win at Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League and he will undergo surgery next week in London.

“It’s tough to see a player out injured,” Zidane told a news conference ahead of today’s home game against Sporting Gijon.

“Bale is going to be out for a very long time.”

Bale has been key all season for Real, who lead the La Liga standings and have qualified for the Champions League round of 16.

The 27-year-old has scored seven goals and set up three more in 16 starts in all competitions.

Real are also without German midfielder Toni Kroos, who is out until next year due to a broken foot, and Spanish forward Alvaro Morata who is sidelined with a torn hamstring.

French defender Raphael Varane will rest this weekend as a precaution ahead of next week’s Clasico in Barcelona.

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