Injury woe for Inter

Injury problems are haunting Internazionale ahead of their key UEFA Champions League game against rivals Milan.

Emre has been ruled out, with scans on Sunday's thigh injury revealed much greater damage that originally envisioned - with the Turk likely to be out for around a month.

Adriano is another high-profile absentee for the game, and it also appears that Christian Vieri will not be able to complete the game - although he should play some part after coming through training without a problem.

Roberto Mancini is waiting to announce his side as he mulls over his absentees - confirming Vieri's likely role.

"I want to evaluate the condition of all my players. I don't think there will be any big surprises," said the Inter coach.

"Vieri suffered a problem in February and hasn't been able to train properly but in the last few days he has been good.

"He doesn't have 90 minutes in his legs - but as a forward he can come on at any time and change the game."

The derby game has been treated with escalating excitement, but Mancini has pleaded for perspective.

"It's quite an important match, but it is just a football match," said Mancini.

"I'd pay a lot to be able to play in a match like this. There is nothing better than a derby - and this is a Champions League quarter final."