Madrid (AFP) – Key defender and captain Sergio Ramos suffered a left knee strain in Spain’s 2-0 World Cup qualifying win in Albania on Sunday which could sideline him from the Real Madrid team for three games.

Ramos was hurt late in the game after falling awkwardly following an aerial duel before he was eventually replaced by Inigo Martinez.

“It looks like a strain. We hope that it won’t keep him out of action for more than two or three games with his club,” Spain coach Julen Lopetegui told Spanish broadcaster Teledeporte.

Ramos could miss next weekend’s La Liga clash against Real Betis, the home Champions League clash with Legia Warsaw and the league visit of Athletic Bilbao the weekend after the European date.