Italy midfielder Riccardo Montolivo has been stretchered off in his side's friendly with the Republic of Ireland this evening, putting his World Cup participation in doubt.
The incident occurred in the early stages at Craven Cottage as Montolivo was on the end of a heavy challenge by Ireland defender Alex Pearce in the eighth minute.
The 29-year-old was attended to by medical personnel on the field for more than five minutes before being carried off, with Alberto Aquilani coming on in his place.
The deadline for the final 23-man World Cup squads to be announced is June 2, with Italy's opening match coming on June 14 against England in Manaus.
Aquilani was also forced off later in the first half with a head injury, although that change appeared to be more of a precautionary measure.
