Roma's bid to win the Serie A title for the first time since 2001 has suffered a major setback after Italy international Alessandro Florenzi ruptured an anterior cruciate ligament.
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.
Source: PA
