"When I came out of the hospital this morning I just wanted to cry, then I saw on old man in the street and realized there are more serious problems in this world," he was quoted as saying by Football Italia magazine on Wednesday.

"I have to admit that I am deeply disappointed inside, but I have to stay positive for the rest of the squad," the 28-year-old player said.

The Milan midfielder was informed Wednesday that he would be sidelined as a result of a muscle problem he picked up in last week's 0-0 draw against Switzerland in a friendly international.

He was diagnosed with an injury to the quadriceps on his right thigh.

"Being sidelined for 10 to 15 days is an eternity for me, but I usually have a very quick recovery time."

Gattuso is expected to miss Italy's first two games against Ghana and USA, Italian team doctor Enrico Castellacci confirmed.

"Gattuso will be out for one or two games," Dr. Castellacci told reporters on Wednesday

Italy coach Marcello Lippi put an end to erupting rumors suggesting he will replace Gattuso in the Azzurri’s squad.

"I'll replace him on the pitch, but not in the squad," said Lippi. "He will stay with us. It’s often better to pick up injuries now rather than in the competition."

Gattuso himself said he was not considering going home.

"Even if Lippi decided to send me home then I would have chained myself to the team bus. You would have had to call the police to take me away," a determined Gattuso said.

The stern midfielder is Italy's third injury victim with both Gianluca Zambrotta and Alessandro Nesta missing the opener against Ghana.