AC Milan confirm striker Balotelli out for four weeks

AC Milan have confirmed that Mario Balotelli will be out of action for four weeks after undergoing surgery.

The striker has not played for Milan since the 1-0 Serie A defeat to Genoa in late September.

He has been suffering from a groin problem and it was thought he could be out until the new year.

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However, a statement from Milan on Wednesday read: "Mario Balotelli underwent surgery in Munich. The operation was successful and recovery time will be about four weeks, unless there are complications."

Balotelli has made just four appearances for Milan since returning in the summer on a season-long loan from Liverpool.

He scored 26 goals in 43 appearances in his first spell with the club before leaving to join Liverpool in 2014.

Milan are sixth in Serie A, seven points behind leaders Fiorentina, and are unbeaten in their last five games.