Real Madrid's Sergio Ramos out for six weeks as scan reveals serious damage

Ramos limped off during the first half of Real's victory over Sevilla on Wednesday and tests revealed a more serious injury than first anticipated.

"A torn hamstring in his left leg has been diagnosed and we will wait to see how it evolves," Real said in a statement on their website.

Ramos is a leader at the back for Carlo Ancelotti's side and has also scored important goals this season. He will miss several games starting, with the derby against Atletico Madrid on Saturday.

It was the second major injury blow from the game, with James Rodriguez breaking his foot against the Andalusian club.

The setback appears to be a recurrence of the problems Ramos suffered in December, when he played in the Club World Cup after doctors warned he would be risking serious injury.

Madrid are now left without one of their key players just three days before visiting La Liga champions Atletico.

Fellow defender Pepe is also absent with Raphael Varane and Nacho the only centre-backs available for Saturday’s game.