Samuel injury blow for Inter

Internazionale centre-back Walter Samuel is likely to miss the rest of the season after suffering a serious knee injury during the 1-1 draw with Brescia.

he 32-year-old Argentina international had to be replaced early on in the second half of the San Siro encounter following a collision with Andrea Caracciolo, with subsequent tests showing up major damage to the joint.

A club statement confirmed: “The tests have found a serious rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament and collateral ligament in the right knee.

“Over the next few days we will plan the reconstructive surgery.”

Samuel suffered a similar injury to his left knee three years ago which kept him on the sidelines for around nine months.

* Inter’s Brazilian wing-back Maicon faces several weeks out after suffering a muscle strain in his left thigh in Saturday evening’s action.