[D-Kin]

Ancelotti fears for Pato Sunday 3 February, 2008

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Carlo Ancelotti has warned Alexandre Pato’s injury “is pretty serious,” leaving Milan with few options for next week’s game against Siena.

The 18-year-old was stretchered off in the final minutes of tonight’s 1-0 away win at Fiorentina after turning his left ankle on the turf.

“He sustained up a pretty serious sprain. We need 48 hours to evaluate the extent of the injury,” said the tactician.

It remains to be seen how long he will be out for, but the Brazilian is a real risk for the first leg of the Champions League clash with Arsenal on February 20.

It is a bitter blow for the Rossoneri, not only because Pato scored the winner at the Stadio Franchi, but also as Alberto Gilardino picked up a booking.

“We are back in an emergency situation. With Gilardino suspended, we hope that Pippo Inzaghi or Ronaldo can recover for next Sunday.

“Pato’s goal was very well constructed. Kaka did a great job in attacking the space left by Gilardino and putting it straight into the centre for Pato, who had a marvellous control and finish.”

Zeljko Kalac was also a revelation in goal, keeping the gloves despite Nelson Dida’s return to fitness from a shoulder problem.

“He earned his place with his performances, but we have another great goalkeeper who will not be forgotten, nor shelved.”

The win in Florence means Milan fly into fifth place with a game in hand against Livorno, which will be played on February 13.

If the team doesn’t qualify for the Champions League, it is likely Ancelotti will be sacked and there are new reports he’ll be replaced by Marcello Lippi.

“These rumours emerge every now and then, but they make me smile more than cause irritation. Will I leave Milan? I’ll chain myself to the gates!”

channel4.com - Football Italia