Thursday 27 October 2016 12:06, UK
Roma have been dealt a blow with the news that Alessandro Florenzi has ruptured an anterior cruciate ligament and could face six months out.
The 25-year-old midfielder was injured in the 85th minute of Roma's 3-1 victory at Sassuolo on Wednesday and medical tests have subsequently confirmed he will need surgery on his left knee.
Florenzi, who can also play at right-back, has been a key player for the Giallorossi as they have secured top-three finishes in each of the past three seasons.
The injury - announced on the club's official website - could rule the Roman out for six months, also taking him out of contention as Italy endeavour to qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
Speaking after Florenzi was carried off on a stretcher, Roma head coach Luciano Spalletti said: "He was squeezing my hand he was in so much pain.
"We all feel really sorry for him. When something like this happens it takes away all the joy from winning the game. It's not what we needed after a good match."
