Real Madrid have confirmed Ruud van Nistelrooy has undergone surgery on his injured ankle, but they are hopeful he will be back before the end of the season.
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Widespread reports from Spain on Wednesday claimed the former Manchester United hit-man would miss the rest of the season as a result of the operation.
Van Nistelrooy has not played since suffering the injury in the shock 2-0 defeat at Almeria on 2nd February.
Real decided to send the Dutchman under the knife in a bid to correct the problem and they have revealed the operation was a success.
Van Nistelrooy is set to be sidelined for up to six weeks and the Spanish club are now hoping the striker will return in time to face arch-rivals Barcelona on 7th May.