Lautaro Martinez injury setback for Inter ahead of crucial Serie A run-in
Inter Milan have been dealt a significant blow with the news that captain Lautaro Martinez is set for another spell on the sidelines. The Argentine striker, who only recently returned from a muscle problem, has suffered a fresh muscular issue and will miss Sunday's Serie A clash with Como, according to reports from Italy.
The club's all-time top scorer in the Champions League had just returned to action in spectacular fashion last weekend, scoring a brace in a 5-2 win over Roma. His latest setback, however, means manager Cristian Chivu will be forced to reform his attacking line. Lautaro's absence is a major concern for the Nerazzurri, who are chasing the Scudetto and hold a seven-point lead at the top of the table.
In his absence, the attacking burden is expected to fall to the partnership of Marcus Thuram and Pio Esposito, who will lead the line against Como. The pair will need to raise their game to compensate for the loss of the team's captain and primary goal threat. Lautaro's 27 league goals this season have been the foundation of Inter's title charge, making his loss a significant one.
The injury is particularly ill-timed for Inter, who face a crucial period in their season. The club is set to face Como twice in quick succession, first in Serie A and then in the second leg of their Coppa Italia semi-final. Lautaro is also a major doubt for those cup fixtures, with the club's medical staff set to assess the extent of the problem in the coming days. His absence could prove pivotal in the title race, with second-placed Napoli still within striking distance should the Nerazzurri's form dip.
For Como, the fixture represents a golden opportunity. The newly-promoted side, managed by Cesc Fabregas, is in the midst of a remarkable season and currently sits in a European qualification spot. A win against the league leaders would be a statement of intent as they chase a historic Champions League berth. The pressure, however, is firmly on Inter to respond to a recent wobble. A derby defeat to AC Milan and draws against Fiorentina and Atalanta have seen their once-commanding lead at the summit trimmed, making the trip to Como a must-win fixture to reassert their authority in the Scudetto race.
