MADRID: Real Madrid's medical staff will be busy ahead of this weekend's Primera Liga action after a string of players returned from international duty with knocks and injuries, reported Reuters.

Brazil leftback Marcelo has fractured a bone in his right foot and is expected to be out of action for up to three months, while Fabio Coentrao, Alvaro Arbeloa, Karim Benzema, Gonzalo Higuain and Sami Khedira are all in need of treatment.

Leftback Coentrao dropped out of the Portugal squad with a muscle complaint, and with the versatile Arbeloa also being substituted out of Spain's 1-1 home draw against France with a muscle problem, Jose Mourinho (pic) may have gaps to fill at full back in upcoming games.

"It looks pretty black," said Spain and Real midfielder Xabi Alonso.

"It's really bad luck that in seven days we have lost all three (fullbacks). I am sure the boss is working on finding a solution."

Khedira missed Germany's 4-4 draw at home to Sweden after picking up a muscle injury against Ireland.

Striker Higuain suffered a knock to his ankle while helping Argentina to a 2-1 win in Chile, while his strike partner Benzema hobbled out of France's draw at the Calderon clutching his left knee.

"I hope it only looks bad and that we haven't suffered any bad luck with the strikers," said Alonso.

"I hope they will both be ready for Saturday."

The Spanish champions host promoted Celta Vigo on Saturday as they look to close the eight-point gap on leaders Barcelona.

The Champions League Group D leaders return to European action next Wednesday at Borussia Dortmund, who are two points behind them in second place.

- mD