ARGY WORLD CUP STAR IN FIREWORKS HORROR

INJURED: Argie striker Viatri FOOTBALL ace Lucas Viatri has been left “severely wounded” after a firework exploded in his face.

The 30-year-old striker can be seen in images posted on social media with his face looking swollen, eyebrows burnt and serious injuries to his right cheekbone.

Argentinian news outlets reported the incident happened on Christmas night while Viatri celebrated with his family and friends in his homeland.

A statement from Penarol, his Uruguayan club, read: “Lucas Viatri suffered an accident with pyrotechnics that affected both eyes.

“He is in Buenos Aires, where he is resting and examinations are being carried out.”

They were unable to confirm how long it would take for him to recover.

Viatri has spent virtually all of his career playing in South America with spells at both Boca Juniors and Estudiantes.

He also played in China for one season with Shanghai Shenua, where he scored four times in 12 appearances.

Viatri joined Penarol earlier this year and guided them to the Uruguayan Premier Division title, scoring four times in 16 games. He also has three caps for the Argentine national side after playing in World Cup qualifiers in 2011.

A friend said: “It’s obviously very serious but it could have been much worse.

“He’s lucky to still have his eyesight and he’s acutely aware of that.”