With Luka Modric, Gareth Bale, Karim Benzema and Marcelo all missing, Carlo Ancelotti was forced to alter the team’s set up
Sergio Ramos will line up in midfield for Real Madrid in their Champions League quarter-final second leg with Atletico.
With Luka Modric ruled out after picking up a knee injury in Saturday’s win over Malaga, Carlo Ancelotti has been short of midfield options.
However, the Italian made the unexpected decision to use the defender in the centre of the field, alongside Toni Kroos and James Rodriguez for the crunch clash as the two sides battle it out for a place in the final four.
Madrid’s injury crisis has also robbed the former AC Milan coach of Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale, giving Javier Hernandez a chance to shine up front, while Fabio Coentrao replaces the suspended Marcelo.
Real Madrid XI:
Casillas; Carvajal, Varane, Pepe, Coentrao; Ramos, Kroos, James, Isco; Ronaldo, Hernandez.
Atletico Madrid XI:
Oblak; Juanfran, Miranda, Godín, Gamez; Tiago, Koke, Arda, Saul; Mandzukic, Griezmann.