Fiorentina manager Vincenzo Montella has claimed that striker Mario Gomez is unlikely to play again this season, casting doubt on the Germany international's hopes of playing in this summer's World Cup.
The 28-year-old, who had previously endured five months out with a knee injury this season, suffered medial ligament damage in March's Serie A clash with Napoli.
It was initially thought that Gomez would be out of action for around three weeks, but Montella has declared that the striker's campaign is all but over.
"I fear we won't see him again this season," the Fiorentina coach told reporters. "That is my feeling, seeing as he's not even training with the team yet.
"It's a shame, as we hardly had him at our disposal. Perhaps there have been a few too many opinions expressed on his injuries."
Gomez has previously played in the 2010 World Cup, as well as Euro 2008 and 2012.