Real Madrid have been rocked by news that Ruud van Nistelrooy will be out for the season. Van Nistelrooy travelled to the United States this week to see specialist Dr Richard Steadman about his injured right knee and, after undergoing an exploratory arthroscopic operation to determine the extent of the problem, it has been decided the Dutchman will now need surgery.
Madrid said in a statement on their website: "The estimated time he will be out is from six to nine months, depending on the recovery."