Gamberini goes under the knife

Fiorentina defender Alessandro Gamberini will be sidelined until May after undergoing shoulder surgery today.

The Italian defender sustained the injury during Saturday's 2-0 defeat at Sampdoria.

A statement from the club read: "Gamberini underwent surgery on his shoulder today and will need two-and-a-half months to fully recover."

Gamberini's absence is a blow for Fiorentina, who are battling on two fronts.

La Viola take on Bayern Munich in the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League, while they are also desperate to climb the Serie standings from 11th position.

Gamberini, 28, has made 15 league appearances and played in six Champions League games for the Florence team this season.