Cassio was stretchered off of the field in the first half of United’s trial match against MetroStars tonight after losing his footing, causing his left knee to buckle.

Early indications suggest the Brazilian has done ligament damage to his left knee, Cassio fearing the worst after hearing his knee make a clicking sound.

The 28 year old did something similar to the same knee back in 2003 and there are fears that it could be a repeat of that occurrence.

Adelaide United medical staff are yet to confirm the extent of the injury, the result expected to be known once Cassio undergoes an MRI scan tomorrow morning.
Coach Aurelio Vidmar and the club will be hoping for the best possible news, however the early signs are not promising.

The Reds’ trial match with MetroStars was planned as preparation for next week’s vital home game against Korean champions the Pohang Steelers, the club’s efforts to get some valuable match practise coming at a cost with Cassio being carried off.

The classy Brazilian defender has made the left back position his since arriving in Adelaide prior to last year’s Pre-Season Cup and his absence would leave a substantial hole on the left side of defence.

This could provide Vidmar with a headache over the coming days as he looks to fill the gap, United’s 2007/08 Club Champion and Player’s Player in terrific form during the AFC Champions League 2008 campaign so far.

To further the problem, Vidmar has already lost the services of centre back Angelo Costanzo through suspension for the match with the Steelers, meaning he may now have to reshape his defence.

The trial match finished 4-2 in Adelaide United’s favour, but all of the attention will be on the outcome of Cassio’s scans tomorrow and how his absence could impact the team going into the all important final two matches of the AFC Champions League Group Stage.

Trial Match Details
Adelaide United FC 4
Diego, Cornthwaite, Pantelis, Mullen
MetroStars 2
Costa, Yong
@ T.K Shutter Reserve