Gravesen's medical beliefs could cause him to miss Madrid game

Midfielder Thomas Gravesen's insistence on natural methods to treat his sprained ankle could prevent him from playing in Real Madrid's league match against Villarreal, according to reports Wednesday.

Gravesen rejects all medicines that contain chemical additives and would prefer to miss an important game than break with his principles, El Pais newspaper said.

While the injury would normally be treated with anti-inflammatory drugs, the Danish international is hoping physiotherapy will be enough to allow him to appear in Saturday's game at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.

Gravesen was hurt during training last week and missed last Sunday's league match against Levante, which Madrid won 2-0.

Several defenders are also in doubt for the Saturday's game because of illness or injury.

Centre back Ivan Helguera is recovering from acute gastroenteritis, right back Michel Salgado has a knee injury, while another centre back, Francisco Pavon, had major dental surgery this week.

Madrid is aiming for a fifth straight win to continue a surge that has cut FC Barcelona's lead atop the standings to six points with six games left.