Reports emanating from Spain this morning claim that Gonzalo Higuain has failed a last-minute fitness test, and will not start for Real Madrid against Barcelona in tonight’s "El Clasico" encounter.

The Argentine has been struggling for fitness all week, with coach Jose Mourinho opting to rest him for the Champions League match with Ajax in midweek in order to give him every chance of making a recovery.

It was thought that "Pipita" would be able to take his place in the first eleven, and indeed Mourinho hinted at his side in a press conference last night, with Higuain included as the lone striker.

However, the spanish newspapper "Marca" comments that the 22-year-old was subjected to several medical examinations this morning, and they claim it has been confirmed that Higuain is not fit enough to start, and may be forced to settle for a place on the bench.

Mourinho may be forced into a tactical rethink, with Lassana Diarra being drafted into midfield one option available, however more likely is a straight swap for Karim Benzema, who has been rejuvenated in recent matches.

Source: goal.com

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