Valencia’s dual bid to win Champions League and Spanish championship has been upset by injury to Kily Gonzalez.
The Argentine midfielder wrenched ligaments in his left knee in last weekend’s 2-0 win against Valladolid. He will be out for at least three months.
At first the injury was not considered particularly serious but a precautionary scan revealed the full extent of the problem. Coach Rafa Benitez said:
“It’s a blow for us because right at this time of year you need all of your best players available. On the other hand, in today’s football, it’s a more and more common hazard of the game.”
Valencia are home to Ajax on Wednesday in their opening Group B tie of the second phase of the Champions League.
By Keir Radnedge
