Filippo Inzaghi is to undergo an operation this week that may well jeopardise his chances of representing Italy in the EURO 2004 finals.

The Milan striker has a foot problem and although the condition is not regarded as serious, Inzaghi believes that an operation is the best way to cure the complaint even though he runs the risk of missing out on Portugal.

“With Milan’s doctors, we decided to make an intervention as soon as possible, due to the fact that there are important matches for Milan and the European championship,” Inzaghi told Milan’s official website.

“I’m sorry but it’s the only possible solution. “I want to clear this up and my first and only thought is to heal so I can be more happy on the pitch.”