AC Milan hit by Boban and Maldini injuries

AC Milan have been hit by injuries to two key players only six days before the start of their championship defence in Italy.

Milan start their campaign at Lecce next Sunday but captain Zvonomir Boban and defender Paolo Maldini are both doubtful for the start of the season.

Boban hurt a thigh muscle on Croatia's 2-1 win against Malta in a Euro 2000 qualifier on Saturday and the strain is likely o take at least two weeks to heal. He is also a doubt for Croatia's next Euro 2000 game at home to the Irish Republic on September 4th.

AC Milan lost the Italian Super Cup to Coppa Italia victors Parma AC in a 2-1 defeat that also saw star defender Paolo Maldini taken off with a foot injury. A broken toe in his left foot means the 31 year old has also been ruled out of Italy's Euro 2000 tie against Denmark in Naples on September 8th.