Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane has been dealt a blow after scans confirmed that midfielder Casemiro has suffered a broken leg.

The 24-year-old has featured in three of Madrid’s La Liga games this season but was injured during Sunday’s 2-0 win over Espanyol.

He was replaced midway through the first half after complaining of discomfort and Madrid have now confirmed the full extent of his injury.

A club statement on Thursday night read: “Following tests carried out today on Casemiro at the Sanitas La Moraleja University Hospital, he has been diagnosed with a fracture to the central third of his left fibula.

“His recovery will continue to be assessed.” Reports in the Spanish press claim the Brazil international will be out of action for at least a month and Zidane’s side certainly missed him in midweek.

They were only able to draw 1-1 with Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabeu, with defender Sergio Ramos rescuing a point at home.

Although Madrid sit top of the table, Casemiro’s injury is a big blow ahead of a busy few weeks. He is set to miss league games against Las Palmas, Eibar and Real Betis as well as European clashes with Borussia Dortmund and Legia Warsaw.

Casemiro is also set to be absent for Brazil’s World Cup qualifiers against Bolivia and Venezuela but he will be confident of recovering in time for the start of November as Madrid look to qualify for the knockout stage of the Champions League.