Abate's season finished as AC Milan defender undergoes eye treatment

AC Milan full-back Ignazio Abate will miss the remainder of the season after suffering a blow to his left eye against Sassuolo last month.

The club confirmed Wednesday that Abate has visited a specialist in Miami to ascertain the damage. Despite receiving positive results, the 30-year-old will continue to recover and focus on returning in time for Milan's 2017-18 pre-season tour.

The Rossoneri have cover at the right-back position, where Abate has excelled since moving from midfield years ago. Mattia De Sciglio, who can play on either side, is more comfortable on the right flank, while youth product Davide Calabria has also been deployed there.

Abate's performances began to wane in recent months, with his trademark speed unable to compensate for his questionable positioning.

He wore the captain's armband for several matches this season while skipper Riccardo Montolivo continued his rehabilitation from a knee injury.

Milan is currently in a multi-team chase for European qualification, with Inter two points ahead of its city rival in fifth place.