Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham is expected to start Wednesday's La Liga clash with Athletic Club despite being forced off at half time against Getafe at the weekend.

Bellingham scored the opener from the penalty spot in Sunday's 2-0 victory over Getafe, before he was withdrawn at the break due to a neck problem.

However, the England international is poised to shake off that issue to take his place in the side for Wednesday's difficult trip to Bilbao.

Real Madrid are also hopeful that Aurelien Tchouameni will be ready to return to the matchday squad following a spell on the sidelines, although he may have to settle for a place on the bench.

Unfortunately for Carlo Ancelotti, he is still unable to call upon Vinicius Junior, Eduardo Camavinga, David Alaba, Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal.

Thibaut Courtois will line up between the posts at San Mames, with Raul Asencio set to make a fourth consecutive start in central defence alongside Antonio Rudiger.

Lucas Vazquez will wear the captain's armband on the right side of defence, while Fran Garcia could be given the nod to retain his left-back spot ahead of Ferland Mendy.

The experienced Luka Modric could return to the side to feature in midfield alongside Federico Valverde and Bellingham.

Arda Guler, who replaced Bellingham at half time on Sunday, is in contention to provide attacking support to Rodrygo and Kylian Mbappe, with the latter looking to build upon the goal that he scored against Getafe.

Real Madrid possible starting lineup: Courtois; Vazquez, Asencio, Rudiger, Garcia; Modric, Valverde, Bellingham, Guler; Rodrygo, Mbappe

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