Carlo Ancelotti says that he expects midfielder Luka Modric to start training in one month with a potential return date set at the start of February.

The Croatian midfielder has been sidelined for the last few weeks after sustaining an injury while on international duty. This injury has introduced some misunderstanding between Real Madrid and Croatia boss Niko Kovac. Even though Modric sustained his injury in an important Euro 2016 qualifying match against Italy, Ancelotti reckons that the 29 year old could have been monitored properly. Kovac, on the other hand, has suggested that Madrid have not provided Modric enough rest and have used him in every match.

Putting behind those issues, Real Madrid are expecting the midfielder to start training in the middle of January. Ancelotti says that the player is recovering well, but a scan tomorrow will probably reveal the true extent of the recovery he has made. Modric has been in superior form over the last 18 months. He contributed heavily for the club’s Champions League winning team, while this season he has scored one goal and created two goals in 10 league appearances. In his absence, Ancelotti has had to depend on players like Asier Illarramendi, who are not seen as first-team regulars.

“Until now he’s been having physiotherapy.His scars are healing well. Tomorrow he’ll have a scan and then another one at the end of the year.Things have gone well until now. He won’t be back soon, but he will start training in the middle of January,” said Ancelotti. Madrid have set a new record of 20 consecutive victories in all competitions. They have managed to do this even without the services of Modric and one expects the club to improve even more upon the return of the Croatian midfielder. Ancelotti has ruled out new signings in January.