Cesc Fabregas says Nico Paz could miss the rest of the season, with the influential Como midfielder sidelined by a knee injury.

Paz has played an instrumental role this term in helping Como secure European qualification for the first time in their history.

The 21-year-old has registered the most goals (12) and direct involvements (18) among midfielders this Serie A campaign, while only Tasos Douvikas (13) has found the net more often for Como (13).

However, Fabregas confirmed Paz will miss Sunday's match against Parma, while it remains to be seen if he will be fit for their final game of the season.

"Nico Paz is injured, he will not be there [to play] Parma," Fabregas told reporters during his pre-match press conference. "He had a knock to the knee.

"If it had been played on Monday, we might be in a different situation, but in all honesty, I can't say if he'll play the last game either. I hope so, but I couldn't tell you for sure."

Two points behind fourth-place AC Milan and Roma in fifth, Champions League qualification is still a real possibility for Como, though they must take maximum points from their final two games and hope for favours from elsewhere.

And Fabregas hopes his players can grasp the opportunity with both hands.

"Obviously, there is hunger for an incredible opportunity. If you don't win [on Sunday], that opportunity is gone," he said.

"It is the match of the season. I hope everyone is fired up for this occasion. We've got nothing to lose and everything to gain, so I hope the lads can play with freedom. I also realise it's the first time many of them have been in this situation."