Palermo’s problematic season is getting worse as defender Andrea Mantovani could be out of action for the next six months.

The defender, five Serie A appearances this season, will require surgery after damaging ligaments in his left knee against Milan last week.

Mantovani, 28, has undergone a series of tests and an operation - which will take place at the Villa Stuart clinic in Rome - is necessary.

The Rosanero, second from bottom in Serie A, lost striker Abel Hernandez to the same injury last month.

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