Modric ruled out for the remainder of the year through injury

Thegoalmac can reveal that Real Madrid have been dealt a big blow after Luka Modric was ruled out for the remainder of 2014 after picking up a knock on international duty with Croatia.

The 29-year-old featured from the start in his country's 1-1 Euro 2016 qualification draw with Italy on Sunday, but was forced to leave the pitch after 28 minutes of play due to injury.

"Modric felt pain in his adductor and will undergo tests in Madrid to determine the extent of the knock. We will know more on Monday or Tuesday," Croatia coach Niko Kovac told HTV.

The midfielder's specific length of absence is not yet known, but initial reports suggest he will be unavailable for between three to five weeks.

Modric has been a key figure for Madrid in the opening months of the 2014-15 campaign, making 17 appearances in all competitions.

The absence of Modric could see Sami Khedira return to the Madrid starting XI in the next few weeks. The Germany international has struggled to secure regular first-team action this term, through a combination of injury and the good form of Toni Kroos, but recently returned to full match fitness.