Pepe`s absence will affect Real Madrid: Sergio Ramos

London: The former Porto centre-back is expected to be unavailable for at least four weeks due to injury, and his team-mate is concerned that his absence could hurt Los Blancos.

Sergio Ramos believes that Real Madrid could struggle without Pepe, who is expected to be sidelined for at least a month. The powerful defender underwent ankle surgery earlier this week and could be out of action for up to four weeks due to the knock. "Of course Pepe`s injury will affect the team. He is a great player and has always been very consistent," Ramos was quoted as saying on the club`s official website. "He is a key part of the side and always maintains a very good level of play. Hopefully he will be back soon because he is a very important player in the dressing room and on the field." Madrid resume La Liga action against Real Sociedad on January 6 after a brief winter break. They currently sit third in the league table with 33 points from 17 games. Goal.Com