Modric to have cheekbone surgery just weeks before Croatia's World Cup opener vs England

 

Croatia captain Luka Modric will have surgery on a fractured cheekbone just weeks before their World Cup opener against England on June 11.

The 40-year-old suffered the injury to his left cheekbone in Sunday's goalless home Serie A draw against Juventus as he was substituted in the second half.

AC Milan have confirmed the midfielder will have surgery, but Fabrizio Romano is reporting Modric will '100 per cent be ready' for the World Cup.

It may mean the 2018 Ballon d'Or winner will need to wear a protective mask should he be fit to face England in nearly two months' time when the countries clash in Arlington, Texas, for their Group L opener.

Croatia then face Panama on June 24 and Ghana on June 27.

The ex-Real Madrid player is aiming to participate at his fifth World Cup, having been a runner-up at the 2018 tournament following final defeat to France.