06.01.2014 00:05 h

Football: World Cup fears for injured Rossi

Giuseppe Rossi (r.) versucht sich gegen Gökhan Inler auf den Beinen zu halten
Giuseppe Rossi (r.) versucht sich gegen Gökhan Inler auf den Beinen zu halten

The World Cup hopes of Italy striker Giuseppe Rossi could be compromised after the Fiorentina player suffered an injury to his troublesome right knee in a 1-0 win over Livorno on Sunday.

Rossi only returned to action earlier this season following a lengthy injury lay-off but has hit 14 goals to become Serie A's top scorer and is firmly in the World Cup plans of Italy coach Cesare Prandelli.

However, the Viola striker could be a doubt for June's showpiece event in Brazil after limping off in the 71st minute at the Artemio Franchi stadium following a foul by Liandro Rinaudo.

Reports say Fiorentina fear the worst for Rossi, who suffered separate injuries to the same right knee, in October 2011 and April 2012, and who has undergone several knee operations in recent years.

Rossi is set to undergo tests on Monday, according to the club which released a brief statement: "Fiorentina announce that following a challenge from Livorno player Leandro Rinaudo, Giuseppe Rossi suffered a sprain to the knee that had already been operated on.

"Tomorrow more tests will be performed."