Vallejo's K.O. will force Zidane to put Casemiro in central defence LaLiga - Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid Varane is only defender 100 percent fit

The absence of Jesus Vallejo was the main surprise from Zinedine Zidane, and it's forced the Frenchman to think about using Casemiro as a centre-back for part of the derby and against Juventus in the Champions League.

A slight physical problem was enough for Zizou to decide not to risk the player, and he joins Nacho, who continues to recover from his right thigh injury, on the sidelines.

It's caused a panic in the Madrid defence because Zidane only has two central defenders available: Ramos and Varane.

The latter has had a difficult week after some problems in the right leg, and if he isn't at 100 percent or has to come off against Atletico, the return of the quarterfinals against Juventus on Wednesday becomes more difficult.

Should Vallejo not recover for the Juve game, Varane would be the only centre-back available, taking into account that Ramos is suspended.

So, Zidane has a dilemma.

On the one hand, the Frenchman play Ramos and Varane, the only fit centre-backs in the squad, against Atletico.

On the other, use an option that is much safer and less risky.

The Frenchman could try placing Casemiro alongside Ramos; a resource that he has already used on other occasions when first choice defenders are not available.