Inter Milan have been given a boost with the news that Andrea Ranocchia's knee injury is not as serious as first thought.
The Nerazzurro captain hurt his left knee during Saturday's goalless draw at Empoli and coach Roberto Mancini feared losing the influential defender for a long spell. However, Ranocchia underwent tests on Sunday which ruled out any ligament damage.
A statement from Inter read: "Tests done have confirmed that Ranocchia has not suffered any ligament damage."
However, the Italy international, who has started in 17 league games and scored two goals for Inter this season, is expected to be sidelined for at least two weeks. Inter take on Sampdoria at the San Siro in a Coppa Italia last-16 fixture on Wednesday before hosting Torino three days later in Serie A.
The Nerazzurri are also alive in continental competition and take on Celtic in the round of 32 of the UEFA Europa League next month.    
Source: FIFA.com