Real Madrid draw the line over player tattoos

Tattoos are as much a part of the modern footballer's make-up as designer man-bags and rakish wags.

However, Real Madrid's patience has run out with their inked-up stars.

The Spanish champions, alarmed by the growing tattoo trend, have asked all players planning a spot of body-art to first speak to the club doctors so that adequate checks can be made on the safety standards at the parlour. 

A hygiene certificate and references for the tattoist will be reqiured.

The players, though, will be relieved to learn that the club will have no say on the style of the tattoo.