Croatian coach Niko Kovac has denied he has had a falling out with Real Madrid over Luka Modric’s injury problems.
The midfielder may not feature again this season after picking up a knee ligament damage in the win over Malaga 11 days ago. The 29-year-old had only just returned from a four-month spell on the sidelines having picked up a thigh problem on international duty back in November.
Back then, Kovac claimed Modric was injured because he had been overplayed by Carlo Ancelotti at Madrid. And this week, Kovac’s doctor in the national team set up, Boris Nemec, said the latest injury setback was because Ancelotti had not eased him back after his layoff.
Speaking to Marca, Kovac said Nemec’s comments were unfortunate, and injuries are part and parcel of sport.
“We firmly believe that Real Madrid, with Ancelotti, want the best for Luka the same as we do,” he stated.
He added: “Luka’s injury is the product of different circumstances. He has played many games over the last three years, with his club and national team. Injuries are part of sport, and I would like to avoid pointing the finger at anyone.”
Some reports have said Modric will be out for the remainder of the season, while other suggest he is targeting a comeback for May 24th against Getafe, meaning he would be fit for the Champions League final should Los Blancos make it.
