Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti has said that Antonio Rudiger "has improved a lot", with the centre-back set to be named in the squad for Sunday's Madrid derby.

The Germany international was forced off at the interval of Thursday's La Liga clash with Getafe following a challenge with on-loan Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood.

Rudiger was unable to train with his teammates on Saturday morning, suggesting that he was losing his battle to overcome the issue in time for Sunday's league clash with Atletico Madrid.

However, speaking during his pre-match press conference, Ancelotti said that Rudiger was making strong progress, and the Italian will decide on Sunday morning whether the 30-year-old is able to start.

"Rudiger has improved a lot. We expect the same improvement between today and tomorrow. We will evaluate him tomorrow and make a decision. It is a blow, it is not that huge, but we have to see it tomorrow. He will be in the squad," said Ancelotti on Saturday.

© Reuters

Fellow centre-backs Eder Militao and David Alaba are long-term absentees with ACL injuries, while Aurelien Tchouameni, who is the cover in that area, is suspended on Sunday.

As a result, Dani Carvajal is likely to start alongside Nacho in the middle of the defence against Atletico, should Rudiger fail to prove his fitness.

Ferland Mendy is another option, while Ancelotti also said on Saturday that Eduardo Camavinga has the ability to play in the middle of the defence if required.

"Yes, the third option would be Camavinga, who has never done it, but by characteristics he can do it. He is fast and forceful. It would be the three options. But, really, the three give confidence," he said.

© Reuters

Ancelotti also defended his club's decision not to sign a new centre-back in January after learning that Alaba would miss the remainder of the season with a serious knee injury.

"After Alaba, we thought that Tchouameni could fill the position in emergencies. Tomorrow is an absolute emergency, but only a game," said the Italian.

"And that's if Rudiger doesn't play. But this situation will not be forever, because Militao is starting to be very well and may be available by April... or the end of March."

Real Madrid will also again be missing number one goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois on Sunday alongside Militao and Alaba, but Rudiger is their only injury worry from the squad that took on Getafe.