Simone Perrotta could miss Italy's forthcoming Euro 2008 qualifying double-header.
Simone Perrotta could miss Italy's forthcoming Euro 2008 qualifying double-header against Ukraine and Georgia.
The Roma midfielder has suffered injury after colliding with Massimo Oddo in training on Wednesday.
An initial diagnosis suggests Perrotta may have suffered a muscle strain, although scans on Thursday should ascertain the full nature of the damage.
The loss of Perrotta would come as a major blow to coach Roberto Donadoni, who has also lost World Cup final hero Fabio Grosso to injury.
The Azzurri are seeking a six-point haul from the clashes against Ukraine and Georgia, following a faltering start to qualifying for the world champions.
A draw against Lithuania and defeat to France is a far from ideal start, but striker Luca Toni has backed his side to bounce back against opponents he scored against at this past summer's World Cup finals in Germany.
"We are here to retrieve a situation which at the moment isn't the best," said Toni.
"I scored my only two goals at the World Cup against Ukraine so they are a lucky team for me, and I hope to repeat that.
"Only after Saturday will we start thinking about Georgia."
