Roma midfielder Kevin Strootman has taken to Twitter to reveal that he picked up a knock on his left knee against Fiorentina, so will be resting for the next couple of weeks.
The Dutch international, who missed this past summer's World Cup because of an anterior cruciate ligament injury, now looks set for another spell out on the sidelines.
Strootman, though, has vowed to return in the near future and has insisted that he can get back to his old level.
United and Chelsea blow
This latest setback for the dynamic midfield ace has finally put rumours to bed regarding a potential move away from Roma in this January transfer window.
The Daily Star have reported that, because the player is set to undergo surgery, the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea will be unable to swoop for his signature before Monday's deadline.
Much like Strootman, Roma released details of the injury on their official website, as they stated: “Yesterday Strootman had another meeting with professors Kierhoffs and Van Dijk, who operated on him.
“During the visit he was found to have a mass of fibrous tissue (called Cyclops Syndrome), and it was suggested this be removed through arthroscopy.
“The surgery will be performed in Amsterdam tomorrow, and will also be used to evaluate the status of the [cruciate] ligament.”
Strootman, then, will now be focussing on his return to the pitch, while the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea will have to turn their attentions elsewhere as they go in search of improving their squads.
There's no doubt about it, despite United having splashed the cash on an array of new talent this past summer, Louis van Gaal's side have still struggled at times throughout the course of the campaign.
In truth, the likes of Daley Blind and Ander Herrera have struggled to settle at the Theatre of Dreams because of injury problems, but they will be desperate to kick on in the second half of the season.
Chelsea, meanwhile, have arguably the best midfield pairing in English football, with the duo of Cesc Fabregas and Nemanja Matic continuing to star at the Bridge.
Manchester United and Cheslea fans: Would you take Strootman this summer despite his injury problems? Have your say in the comments section below!
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