Frey absent for Fiorentina decider

ACF Fiorentina goalkeeper Sébastien Frey will miss the Viola's decisive UEFA Cup Group C fixture against FK Mladá Boleslav on 20 December after twisting his right knee in training.

Surgery pending
The 27-year-old French international has been ever-present in both Serie A and the UEFA Cup for Claudio Cesare Prandelli's side this season, but will have an operation on Friday. "He twisted his knee, partially damaging the meniscus and will undergo surgery," said a club statement. "Only after the procedure will it be possible to know how long he will be sidelined for." Fiorentina have taken five points from three group-stage matches so far, and require a sixth to qualify for the last 32. Fourth-placed Mladá Boleslav know anything other than victory in Florence will result in elimination.