AC Milan's Stephan El Shaarawy is set to be out of action for 10 weeks after the striker underwent surgery on a foot injury.
El Shaarawy has only made seven appearances for Milan this season, after suffering from thigh and foot problems, and the club have confirmed the 21-year-old will be out until March 2014.
"With everyone at the club and all the fans wishing him the best, Stephan El Shaarawy will be away from the football pitch for around 10 weeks after surgery on his foot today," said a statement on www.acmilan.com.
"Twenty-year-old El Shaarawy has already shown what he's capable of on the football pitch.
"In what must be a tough moment for the young player, Stephan should focus on the fact that time is on his side and also that when he gets back playing in three months' time, the team will be in action in the league and will need the best that the player can offer.
"And as we've all seen, he has a lot to offer.
"From all the fans waiting to see him on the pitch again, 'Forza Stephan'."
El Shaarawy also looks certain to miss Rossoneri's Champions League last 16.