AC Milan may have to make do without the services of Alexandre Pato for the foreseeable future.

The Brazilian international made a return to the Milan squad during yesterday's 3-1 loss to Barcelona following a two-year battle with a thigh injury.

However, the 22-year-old only spent 14 minutes on the pitch before he was forced to limp off with a muscle complaint.

"He felt pain in his thigh again," coach Massimiliano Allegri told reporters. "The medical staff will have a look at it.

"It's a serious problem if he's picked up yet another injury. He's been struggling for two years now."

Pato has been limited to 16 appearances in all competitions this season.

Written by
Liam Apicella