Marseille defender Manuel Dos Santos is expected to be out of action for at least four months after breaking his shinbone during last weekend’s victory against Bastia.
DosSantos was carried off after a clash with goalkeeper Nicolas Penneteau, which earned the Bastia player a red card.
The injuryis a blow to Marseille, who lie two points behind leaders Lyoin.
“If you consider rest and training, this injury will hamper his start to next season,” coach Alain Perrin said.
Defender Daniel van Buyten added: “To give him the title or a European place would be the best present for him.”
