Milan only narrowly lost the derby yesterday, but as many have pointed out, it could have been so much worse in terms of the scoreline.

The Rossoneri defence could not deal with the size, weight and speed of a rejuvenated Adriano, and the precision and intelligence of Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

In short, they desperately needed Alessandro Nesta, whose considerable speed and calm manner could have helped his side no end.

Alas for i Diavoli, the 32-year-old was out with his niggling back problem, and now it has been reported that surgery will take place tomorrow (Tuesday) morning.

Datasport says that the doctor Maurizio Fornari and his team will perform the operation; he is the same doctor who counselled against surgery for the former Italian international last year, but now the pain is such that it prevents Nesta from sleeping at night without the aid of painkillers.

It not known how long the recovery period might be but the doctors are optimistic that the defender will make a full recovery.

The former Lazio captain's career has been blighted with injury problems; all three World Cups he travelled to ended early due to various muscle strains.

His club will now have to be patient and hope the Roman can soon be back to his majestic best.