Real seek specialist advice on Nistelrooy's knee

Madrid: Real Madrid have sought specialist advice on Ruud van Nistelrooy's knee amid fears the Dutch striker could require surgery.

The 32-year-old was hurt during the 2-1 Champions League defeat at Juventus three weeks ago and missed the Primera Liga matches against Almeria and Athletic Bilbao.

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Van Nistelrooy returned to play 82 minutes of Wednesday's 2-0 home defeat by Juventus but a scan appeared to show an aggravation of the injury that threatened to end his career eight years ago.

"Real have seen a possible injury to the external meniscus in his right knee, that was operated on by doctor (Richard) Steadman back in 2000," the club said in a statement. "Medical staff will consult Steadman to evaluate the different therapeutic possibilities for treating the injury."

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American Steadman operated on Van Nistelrooy while the player was at PSV Eindhoven.

Spanish media reported Saturday he could be sidelined for around two months if surgery was required.

Van Nistelrooy was left out of the squad to host Malaga in the Primera Liga on Saturday.