Wednesday 10 August 2016 14:28, UK
Villarreal striker Roberto Soldado has been ruled out for up to six months after injuring his cruciate ligament a week before the start of the new season.
The 31-year-old, who joined Villarreal in 2015 after a disappointing spell at Tottenham, suffered the injury after falling badly during a pre-season friendly against Porto on Saturday.
Soldado is set to undergo surgery on the injury and is expected to be sidelined for up to six months.
"I fell and got up. And now, more than ever, I'll try harder," said the former Spain international on social media on Wednesday.
"It begins a difficult period but my motivation is even greater. To work, keep doing everything for the team and give my all to be soon on the pitch giving everything for this shirt as I have always done. I count on your support!"
Soldado's injury comes at a difficult time for Marcelino's side, who are due to face Monaco in a Champions League qualification play-off first leg on August 17.
However, the Spaniard's absence could open the door for new signing Alexandre Pato, who recently joined the Yellow Submarine in a £2.5m deal from Corinthians, following an unsuccessful loan spell at Chelsea last season.
