Bodo/Glimt 3-1 Inter – Lautaro Martinez injured; Chivu confirms ‘it’s serious’

Lautaro Martinez was forced off with an injury tonight, in one of many painful moments as the Nerazzurri slumped to a 3-1 defeat to Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt.

Cristian Chivu’s side came into the first leg of their Champions League play-off, knowing it was going to be a tough test in the freezing temperatures and on the artificial pitch.

Speaking after the game, Chivu described Lautaro as “lost”, and when prompted to elaborate, confirmed “it’s pretty serious.”

Inter forward Lautaro to undergo medical exams on Friday

Sky Italia are now reporting that the Argentine forward will undergo tests on Friday to establish the seriousness and nature of the injury, which early reports indicated may be calf-related.

It looks unlikely, therefore, that the Argentine will be available for the second leg of the play-off, due to take place next Tuesday at San Siro.

It comes as a major blow to Chivu’s side, who need to overcome a two-goal deficit to progress in Europe and are still attempting to consolidate their lead at the top of Serie A.

Lautaro has been ever-present this season for the Nerazzurri and whilst the club have talented back-up options in the likes of Francesco Pio Esposito and Ange-Yoan Bonny, their talismanic forward’s absence is sure to sting.