Shevchenko's operation be "a success"
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2005-02-22 15:33

AC Milan's European Footballer of the Year Andriy Shevchenko Monday had a successful operation on a broken cheekbone sustained in a clash with a Cagliari defender on Saturday night, doctors said in Milan.

Doctors could not say when the Ukrainian ace would be back with the team. The center-forward made a record-fast return from a sprained ankle earlier this month to turn defeat against Lazio into victory.

Sheva is certain to miss the scudetto-holders' Champions League second-round first leg at Manchester United on Wednesday as well as the Milan derby against Inter next Sunday.

A goal at the death by Brazilian wingback Serginho gave Milan a 1-0 win on Saturday, putting them level on points with Juventus and ahead on goal difference.

Juventus, eight points clear four games ago, drew 0-0 at Messina.