Luka Modric won't rush back from his thigh injury, but he expects to be ready by mid-February when Real Madrid resumes its Champions League title defense against Schalke.

Modric injured a thigh muscle during Croatia's Euro 2016 qualifier with Italy in November, and was sent for surgery to repair the problem.

The midfielder was expected to be out for three months.

"Forecasts have indicated that in mid-February I could play again. I won't rush my recovery but I'll be ready for the important battles.

"When I was told I faced three months out, I feared the worst as I remembered when I broke my leg in 2009, but in the end I looked on the bright side.

"If it had to happen, it's better that it did during this period so I can return in time for the first round of matches with titles at stake.

"I think Madrid can become the first club to win the Champions League twice in a row."