Inter Milan´s Adriano risks missing start of season

Inter Milan striker Adriano could miss the start of the season after suffering a right calf strain in training, the Serie A champions said on Wednesday.

The 26-year-old Brazilian will be unavailable for Friday's friendly against Benfica in Lisbon, the club said.

But Italian media reported that, while the injury is less serious than first feared, he may also skip the Italian Supercup against Cup-holders AS Roma on August 24 and the opening league match at Sampdoria the following week.

“He underwent medical tests today and has already begun a course of physiotherapy ahead of another check-up next week,” Inter said on their website.

Adriano is seeking to find a place in new coach Jose Mourinho's plans after a successful loan stint at Brazilian club Sao Paulo.

His form had plummeted in the two years before he was loaned to Sao Paulo in December, as he was hampered by injuries and controversies about late nights out that caused friction with Mourinho's predecessor, Roberto Mancini.

Mourinho has several fitness headaches as the season approaches, with France midfielder Patrick Vieira and defenders Marco Materazzi, Cristian Chivu, Ivan Cordoba and Walter Samuel all seeking to overcome injuries.