Davide Zappacosta has vowed to come back "stronger than before" after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury.
The Chelsea defender, who is on loan at Serie A outfit Roma until January, was already on the treatment table because of a calf problem which had limited him to just 12 minutes of action so far this season.
However, upon targeting a return he suffered a major setback with a serious knee injury which is set to keep him out of action until next year.
"The club can confirm that Davide Zappacosta underwent surgery on Friday afternoon to repair the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee," a statement from Roma read.
"The operation was carried out by Professor Mariani, at Villa Stuart private hospital in Rome.
"The surgery was a success and the player will start the rehabilitation process imminently."
Taking to social media after undergoing surgery, Zappacosta was very much in high spirits.
A rough translation reads: "This time the blow was hard, unexpected! I thank Prof. Mariani for the intervention, and all those who have been and will be close to me, are my strength!
"I'm ready to work hard and come back stronger than before!"
A former teammate of Zappacosta in Alvaro Morata got in touch with the Italy international following news of the injury with a classy message.
"Dear Davide, I know what you're going through, you don't know how sorry I am," he wrote.
"Really from my heart ... as much as if it had happened to me, especially because I saw a few people with the desire and the determination that you have!
"I'm sure you'll come back stronger than before. I love you my friend. A hug."
Given that Zappacosta will likely still be injured when his loan spell at Roma expires, it remains to be seen if the deal will be cancelled and returns to Stamford Bridge.
