Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane is set to welcome back captain Sergio Ramos in their Champions League semi-final second leg clash against Chelsea.
That is according to reports in Spain.
Ramos has endured a stop-start 2021 thus far, making just three appearances across all competitions as a result of knee and calf injuries whilst he also tested positive for coronavirus earlier in the month.
However, having been spotted back in training this week there had been speculation that he could return to action as early as Tuesday when Los Blancos host the Blues in the first leg of their last-four clash.
But it would appear that will not be the case.
This is because Spanish news outlet AS have claimed that Real have instead pencilled in Ramos to return for the second leg against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on May 5.
Furthermore, the report states that Zidane will give the 35-year-old some game time in Real's LaLiga fixture with Osasuna next Saturday in order to build up his match practice ahead of the trip to west London.
Such is Ramos' importance to Real Madrid, having him available for selection once again will certainly be a massive boost for Zidane as he bids to reach another Champions League final.
With that said, winning the competition is likely to be the only way in which the La Liga giants avoid finishing the season trophyless.
Following a frustrating goalless draw at home to Real Betis on Saturday, their grip on the La Liga crown is softening with five games to play.
Prior to neighbours Atletico Madrid kicking off against Athletic Club, Zidane's side found themselves two points behind the league leaders and looking over their shoulders at Barcelona.
But Zidane is not giving up hope of retaining the title.
"The league is five games to go, that's still a lot," Real boss Zidane said at his post-match press conference. "We lost two points, but we're going to keep fighting.
"Defensively we were good, but offensively we lacked a lot and were not very fine at the top.
"The league did not end today. The league remains, the others have to play."
