Batistuta blow for Roma

AS Roma's chance of reclaiming their Serie A title have been dealt a blow by the news that Argentinian striker Gabriel Batistuta faces a spell on the sidelines with a thigh injury.

Key period
Batistuta hobbled off the field of play after 35 minutes of Roma's 2-1 win over Parma AC having aggravated a muscle strain in his left thigh. Although Roma have confirmed he will not need surgery on the problem, he is likely to miss this month's meetings with Milan AC and AC Chievo Verona.

Tests on Monday
"He went to the hospital on Monday morning, he has had some tests and we will know in a day or so what the results are," AS Roma spokesman Fabrizio Gallassi said. "There is no chance of an operation but we will know then the extent of the muscle damage."

'Very sad'
Batistuta, who has been struggling to find form after scoring only three goals so far this season, said: "I'm very sad because I felt well and I thought I was playing my best match of the season. I did not need this injury - just at the moment when I thought I was back to fitness."

Attacking problems
With Vincenzo Montella also sidelined until February, Roma coach Fabio Capello could now be forced to use Marco Delvecchio and inexperienced youngster Antonio Cassano in attack for the forthcoming matches against Milan and Chievo.