Portugal youth - teamer Tiago Ilori suffered a fractured fourth metacarpal of his right hand this morning in training, the official website of Sporting Lisbon is reporting.

This afternoon, the defender was operated on successfully at CUF Infante Santo, Hospital by orthopedic surgeon Pedro Pessoa.

If the 20 - year - old's rehabilitation goes according to plan, he could return to the pitch in the next three to four weeks.

His injury is a big blow to several suitors including Valencia, Chelsea and Liverpool who had been interested in signing him from Sporting this summer.

Though Tiago Ilori started his career as a center forward, he has now established himself in defense, and can be deployed as a full back or central defender.

He is eligible to compete for the National Teams of Nigeria, Portugal and England.

Photo Credit: ogol.com.br