Real Madrid forward Marco Asensio has been ruled out of tonight's Champions League clash with APOEL due to an 'infected pimple'.

The 21-year-old has got the new campaign off to a flying start, scoring impressive goals in each leg of the Supercopa de Espana and netting twice in three La Liga appearances to date.

The Spaniard will play no part as his side begin their Champions League title defence tonight, however, after reportedly picking up an infection from shaving his legs.

Speaking to reporters, Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane confirmed that he is on the sidelines, explaining: "A pimple... which stopped him pulling up his socks."

Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to return to the fold for Zidane's side tonight when they welcome the Cypriot side, having been banned for five games domestically for his controversial red card during the Supercopa final leg.

Written by
Neil Wilkes