Tiago injury major setback for Atletico

Atletico Madrid's title hopes suffered a major setback on Sunday when it was confirmed the club's Portuguese international midfielder, Tiago Cardoso will be out of action for at least four months after breaking his leg.

   Tiago broke his right tibia in the 27th minute of his side's 1-0 win at home to Espanyol on Saturday in an action which saw him foul Espanyol's Marcos Asensio from behind.

   He was carried off the pitch on a stretcher for tests which proved that he had suffered a serious injury and he will have an operation on Sunday.

   It is a major setback for Atletico as they lose one of the few players in their squad capable of holding onto the ball in central midfield and providing creativity and balance, although Atletico coach, Diego Simeone was not certain whether or not his side would move in January to replace him.

   "I am not going to look that far ahead," said the coach, who also considered it "very early to say who will play in his position."  Endi