Tottenham handed Champions League boost with Real Madrid star Marcelo out for a month with hamstring injury
TOTTENHAM'S Champions League hopes were boosted thanks to an injury to Real Madrid left-back Marcelo.
The Brazilian is facing a month on the sidelines after suffering a Grade 2 tear in his hamstring.
Marcelo, 29, was forced off with 19 minutes remaining of Madrid's shock 1-0 defeat to Real Betis on Wednesday.
He had missed their previous La Liga clash through suspension following a red card against Levante a fortnight ago.
Following the loss in midweek, Marcelo said: "I have pain in my leg. We'll see after scans."
His absence puts him in danger of missing the club's upcoming Champions League matches.
The reigning holders travel to Germany to tackle Borussia Dortmund this Tuesday.
They then welcome Spurs to the Bernabeu on October 17.
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Marcelo will also miss out on the league matches against Alaves, Espanyol, Getafe, Eibar and Girona.
His absence will be a major disappointment to Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane after his side's poor start to the campaign.
They are currently eighth in the table after the opening five matches. Barcelona are in top spot, seven points ahead of their bitter rivals.
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