Real Madrid ace Xabi facing extended spell on sidelines

Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso faces an extended spell on the sidelines after suffering a burst eardrum.

Alonso was elbowed by Frenchman Jeremy Mathieu in the 58th minute of the game at the Mestalla Stadium, which Real won 3-2.

The 32-year-old alerted club doctors when the pain did not ease following the conclusion of the match and he returned to Madrid by car, rather than taking the plane with his team-mates.

"After undergoing medical tests, it has been found that Xabi Alonso has a perforated left eardrum as a result of a blow received in the match against Valencia," said the club's medical report which was released online.

Perforated eardrums often heal without treatment within two months but in more severe cases surgery can be required.