Lazio midfielder Cristian Brocchi retains hope of playing on after suffering a metatarsal injury.

Brocchi has just turned 37 and suffered a potentially career-ending injury after a tackle from Genoa man - and his former teammate - Francelino Matuzalem.

"The doctors gave me hope," Brocchi told Sky Sport Italia after undergoing surgery to reduce a fractured metatarsal bone in his right foot.

"We took a riskier approach to the injury, but one that could give me a chance of returning before the end of the season.

"It would be wonderful to win the Coppa Italia in front of our own fans, so I have set myself that objective of returning to lift the trophy."

Brocchi's agent was highly critical of Matuzalem's challenge and apparent lack of an apology.

"He called me afterwards to clear the air. I was disappointed with the fact he didn't apologise straight away and was frankly perplexed. There are no problems between us.

"I am sorry that the tension was created around this and particularly after my friend Roberto Baronio made a comment because he was upset at seeing me suffer."