Parramatta’s Ben Smith faces a lengthy stint on the sidelines after the NRL second-rower underwent surgery on his injured pectoral muscle on Thursday.

Smith suffered the injury in last weekend’s trial match against Penrith, but chose to delay the surgery until scans had confirmed the extent of the injury.

The club released a statement indicating Smith “is expected to be sidelined for an extended period”, although while the injury can be season-ending, coach Stephen Kearney is confident the 27-year-old will feature for the Eels later in the year.

“Ben’s obviously very disappointed but there’s positive news in the fact he’s a good chance to return to the field later this season,” Kearney said.

“He’s an important part of our squad and losing him is a blow for us but, fortunately, we have a few players who can cover his position.”