Inzaghi set to miss rest of season
Reuters - Thursday 11 November 2010, 16:11
MILAN - AC Milan's 37-year-old striker
Filippo Inzaghi is likely to miss the rest of the season after
suffering cruciate ligament and meniscus damage in his left
knee, leaving his career hanging in the balance.
"After a consultation the doctor has confirmed the need for
surgery," a Milan statement said on Thursday.
Inzaghi, whose contract expires at the end of the season,
suffered the injuries after coming off the bench in Wednesday's
3-1 win over Palermo which sent the Rossoneri top of Serie A.
Milan decided against offering Brazil's Ronaldo a new deal
when he suffered a similar injury two years ago but the club's
esteem for Inzaghi suggests an extension may be available.
"It can't end and it will not end. Pippo is in our hearts
and we in his," Milan's website said.
Inzaghi vowed to carry on playing once fit.
"I don't give up. I will do everything, believe me, because
it is not over. I will also do it thanks to your strength and
your energy," he said in a statement to fans.
The former Italy player, part of the World Cup-winning squad
in 2006, has worked hard to stay in peak physical condition in
order to keep playing at the top level into his late 30s and the
fact he is usually a substitute has also kept him fresh.
He came off the bench to score twice in the 2-2 Champions
League draw with Real Madrid last week and had been hoping for a
role in Sunday's Serie A game with champions Inter Milan.
Brazil striker Alexandre Pato also looks set to miss the
derby with a thigh problem leaving Massimiliano Allegri almost
obliged to play Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Robinho and Ronaldinho.
With Milan top and aiming for their first scudetto since
2004, owner and beleaguered Italian prime minister Silvio
Berlusconi may seek a replacement for Inzaghi in the January
window to boost his side's hopes and his own popularity.