Brazilian footballer Marquinhos Calazans is set to be on the sidelines for eight months after a brutal, unprovoked attack. The Fluminese forward, 21, was enjoying a night out at a bar with with a few close friends when he was recognised by fans of rival club Flamengo. Calazans, who was only just recovering from ACL surgery that caused him to miss much of 2017, was approached by the supporters in Rio de Janeiro, clearly intent on provoking him. The youngster opted to leave the bar and headed for a snack bar next door - only to be followed by the thugs. The Flamengo-following pair reportedly became increasingly aggressive, with Calazans attempted to defuse the situation verbally. Shortly after, a fight broke out and the striker was hit cleanly on his recently surgically-repaired knee, with reports indicating that he will be out for most of 2018 as well. –Agencies