Barcelona defender Carles Puyol ruled out of 'El Clasico' against Real Madrid with dislocated elbow

Barcelona centre back Carles Puyol defender has been ruled out of Sunday's 'El Clasico' against Real Madrid after dislocating his left elbow.

The 34-year-old captain required hospital treatment after suffering the injury in Tuesday's 2-0 victory over Benfica in the Champions League.

Puyoll, playing his first match since recovering from a knee problem, landed awkwardly after leaping for the ball at a corner in the 78th minute.


'We are waiting for more information but he will certainly miss the "Clasico",' Barca coach Tito Vilanova said after the match.

The injury is a huge blow for Barcelona with Puyol's defensive partner Gerard Pique also sidelined.

Barca won in Lisbon, their second victory in two Group G games, thanks to goals from Alexis Sanchez and Cesc Fabregas.

'Now we have to forget about the Champions League and have a unique opportunity (on Sunday) to do things well at home,' said Barca fullback Dani Alves, who was visibly shaken by Puyol's injury. 'We know it is going to be a complicated match.'

The Catalans are eight points ahead of Real in La Liga after six matches.