Northampton Saints wing Edoardo Todaro is facing a long lay-off after suffering a serious knee injury at a training camp with Italy.
The Italian Rugby Federation website say diagnostic tests had confirmed a torn cruciate ligament in his right knee.
“The player will return to his club where he will continue his recovery and rehabilitation process, supported by the Northampton medical staff in collaboration with the men’s national team medical staff,” a statement added.
Todaro, 19, has been a revelation for Saints, scoring 10 tries in 13 appearances -despite serving a two-match ban for an aerial tackle – after signing his first professional contract before the start of the season.