Real defender Samuel to have surgery on broken nose

Real Madrid defender Walter Samuel will undergo surgery after breaking his nose in Sunday's league match against Real Mallorca.

The 26-year-old Argentine international suffered a multiple fracture after a clash of heads with Mallorca striker Bernardo Romeo in the first half at the Bernabeu.

He continued playing and scored Real's second goal in their 3-1 win.

Real said on Monday that Samuel would have the operation on Tuesday to help reduce inflammation and immobilise the bone. He is doubtful for the next league match at Numancia on Sunday.