Interestingly the decision comes when Marcelo has been suffering a low point in his career. He joined the club as an 18-year-old midway through the 2006-2007 season for six million euros.

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson was incensed at the decision to send off Portugal winger Nani during the UEFA Champions League match versus Real Madrid, which United lost 2-1.

Adan Garrido, who has shared starts with Casillas recently, will likely take his place.

The individual battles that will help decide who prevails in Wednesday's Euro 2012 semi-final between Portugal and defending champions Spain at Donetsk's Donbass Arena: