Madrid - Real Madrid striker Ruud van Nistelrooy is to have arthroscopic surgery for a problem with his right ankle, the Spanish champions said on Wednesday.

The Netherlands international has flown to Amsterdam for the operation, Real said in a statement on their website (www.realmadrid.com).

Van Nistelrooy has missed Real's last four matches in all competitions with a persistent swelling around the ankle joint and was absent from Wednesday's training session.

The club do not known how long he will be out of action though his presence at Euro 2008 is unlikely to be threatened.

The 31-year-old has scored 12 league goals for Real this term and his absence will be a major setback as they close in on a second consecutive Primera Liga title.
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