Gareth Bale ruled out against Bayern; Isco to start
The Welsh forward, who has been unable to shake off a calf muscle, didn't train this morning and will sit out the game. Isco looks certain to start</br><a title="Valencia vs Real Madrid live online: LaLiga week 21" href="https://en.as.com/en/2018/01/27/football/1517061829_969548.html">Valencia vs Real Madrid live online: LaLiga</a>
Gareth Bale was absent from this morning’s training session in Valdebebas, Real Madrid’s final dress rehearsal ahead of tomorrow’s Champions League quarter final decider against Bayern Munich. The Welsh forward is still suffering a swollen right calf – a problem which forced him to retire early from last week’s first leg. His absence from today’s session means he will play no part in tomorrow’s game and will open the door to Isco, who looks almost certain to start which will surely delight the Madrid fans who took part in an AS poll this weekend. James, Lucas Vázquez and Asensio are the other alternatives to deputise for Bale.
Madrid train without problems on eve of Bayern game
As for the rest of the squad, all of the players exercised without problems. Keylor is expected to return after sitting out the Sporting Gijón game while Zidane will field his strongest, available back four - Carvajal, Nacho, Ramos and Marcelo. No changes expected in midfielder with Casemiro, Kroos and Modric ready to start while in attack, the only question mark is who will line up alongside Benzema and Cristiano.
Tejero and Enzo Zidane work out with Madrid's first team
Castilla players Álvaro Tejero and Enzo Zidane were drafted in to complete the session with the first team. The former was in the list for the Sporting game as cover while Varane and Pepe remain out injured.
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The squad will convene at the Santiago Bernabéu at 20:30 hours this evening before being taken to the players’ residence at Valdebebas where they will spend the night.