PSG star Neymar stretchered off after suffering horror ankle injury in Saint-Etienne clash
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Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar was stretchered off after suffering a horror ankle injury in Sunday's clash with Saint-Etienne.
PSG extended their lead at the top of Ligue 1 with a 3-1 win at Saint-Etienne, thanks to a brace from Marquinhos and an Angel Di Maria effort.
However, the contest was overshadowed by a serious injury to Neymar, who could now be facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
What happened?
The Brazilian forward writhed around in agony after his ankle appeared to give way following a tackle from a Saint-Etienne player late in the second half.
Neymar's PSG teammates looked on visibly concerned as the PSG medical staff ran on to help the forward leave the pitch, raising fears over his fitness for the remainder of the season.
Neymar is stretchered off in the final minutes against St-Etienne in what appears to be an ankle injury 😞 pic.twitter.com/P8Jq4bxIKM
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) November 28, 2021
What's been said?
Neymar took to social media after the game to reassure his followers, and has vowed to "come back better and stronger".
"Unfortunately, these setbacks are a part of an athlete’s life," he said on Instagram.
"Now you have to raise your head and move on. I will come back better and stronger."
PSG boss Mauricio Pochettino told reporters at his post-match press conference when asked about the severity of Neymar's injury: "For the moment there is nothing to say.
"He felt pain from the twist of his ankle. Tomorrow, he will take exams and we will know a little more about his injury."
How many games could Neymar miss?
Depending on the severity of the injury, Neymar could now be a doubt for PSG's next Ligue 1 outing against Nantes on Wednesday.
Sorti en dernier du vestiaire parisien, Neymar a quitté le stade Geoffroy-Guichard tête basse et en béquilles. Il passera des examens lundi. #PSG @GoalFrance pic.twitter.com/xwifrMOcEA
— Marc Mechenoua (@LeMechenoua) November 28, 2021
If the 29-year-old ends up requiring surgery, he may even be out of action until the new year, but a scan will be required before a final prognosis can be given.
Losing Neymar would represent a major loss for Mauricio Pochettino given the prominent role he has had in his plans at the start of the season.
The Brazil international's appearance against Saint-Etienne was his 14th of the campaign for PSG, and he has also recorded three goals and three assists.