Isco Injury: Updates on Real Madrid Star's Status and Return

Isco's breakout 2014-15 campaign will have to be put on hold for now, as the Real Madrid midfielder sits out the Jan. 24 clash with Cordoba due to a minor injury.

Los Blancos manager Carlo Ancelotti delivered the news, per AS' Nicholas Rigg and ESPN FC's Dermot Corrigan:

Isco will be replaced by Sami Khedira, making his first league start of the season, according to Real Madrid TV's Phil Kitromilides:

The 22-year-old has been enjoying an excellent season for Los Blancos, recovering well from last year's campaign that saw him spend far more time on the bench than he would have liked in the latter stages of the season.

The arrival of James Rodriguez seemed to indicate his time in the Spanish capital could be up, but a series of excellent performances thrust him back firmly into Ancelotti's plans.

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The injury to Luka Modric saw Isco move into a deeper position in the midfield, and the Spain international has thrived ever since, playing an important role in the team's undefeated run to end 2014. Real Madrid TV's Phil Kitromilides has been extremely impressed with the youngster of late:

Injuries were the main reason for the Spain international's move to the bench late in the 2013-14 season, and with competition for the starting XI at an all-time high for Los Blancos, Isco must hope his spot will still be open when he returns.