AC Milan and Italy midfielder Riccardo Montolivo has been ruled out of the World Cup after suffering a broken tibia during the Azzurri’s 0-0 draw with the Republic of Ireland on Saturday.
The Rossoneri midfielder hobbled off eight minutes into the match after a challenge from Alex Pearce.
Azzurri doctor Enrico Castellacci confirmed the injury while speaking to Rai Sport after the match, stating that the 29-year-old will likely require surgery.
“There is a fracture of the tibia. I must wait to see the x-rays but nearly always a fracture of the tibia requires surgery.
“There will be no World Cup for Montolivo. It’s upsetting because the player really wanted to go. He will likely be out for two months.
Alberto Aquilani, who came on for Montolivo, was also forced to leave the match but his injury does not appear to be serious.
“He received a blow to his head. The tests came back negative. They were only precautionary tests.”
Follow Adriano Boin on Twitter: @Boin44
