Figo out of action for lengthy spell after breaking leg

Nedved apologies for injuring Portuguese

Inter’s Portuguese winger Luis Figo is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines after fracturing a fibula in his right leg during Sunday’s match with Juventus.

The 35-year-old picked up the injury following a challenge from Juve midfielder Pavel Nedved in the 1-1 draw at the Stadio Olimpico, an incident which infuriated Inter president Massimo Moratti.

“He didn’t get injured by himself,” fumed the Nerazurri chief. “It was a very nasty and avoidable foul.”

Despite managing to limp off, Figo underwent medical tests on Monday that confirmed the break, and will have surgery on Tuesday to repair the damage. The player himself, told Maisfutebol that he expected to be back “within two months”.

For his part, Nedved has issued an apology to Portugal’s all-time record appearance holder and hopes that Figo will make a speedy recovery. “It was completely accidental and I was trying to get the ball,” said the Czech.

“I’m really sorry that this happened. It didn’t mean to hurt Luis and I have already cleared things up with him. I hope he returns as soon as possible.”

The news is a severe blow to Figo, who had been enjoying a good start to his last season in European football, ahead of likely retirement or a lucrative move to the United States.