Without Bale, Real Madrid prepares for CL clash with Moscow

Madrid: Real Madrid returned to training on Sunday in preparation for the upcoming UEFA Champions League clash with CSKA Moscow, but without Welsh forward Gareth Bale, who was out due to injury.

Real Madrid was held to a 0-0 La Liga draw on Saturday in the Madrid derby against cross-town rival Atletico, ahead of Tuesday’s trip to the Russian capital in the Champions League group stage, reports Efe.

Bale underwent medical tests to determine whether he has a muscle injury, after being replaced at halftime during the Madrid derby.

Coach Julen Lopetegui led Sunday’s training, in which the starters against Atletico performed a recovery session.

Isco, who recently underwent surgery for appendicitis, and Marcelo, who suffers a muscular problem, did not exercise on Sunday, while Alvaro Odriozola worked out normally.

Vinicius Jr, who made his La Liga debut against Atletico, also joined the training and is looking to make his Champions League debut in Moscow.

[source_without_link]IANS[/source_without_link]