Newcastle United fullback Ryan Taylor has been dealt a crushing blow with his club announcing he could be out until the end of next season with a cruciate knee ligament injury.
The 28-year-old initially injured his knee in a Europa League qualifier with Greek side Atromitos in August and only recently returned to training.
“Ryan has worked so hard and diligently since his injury,” said Newcastle manager Alan Pardew.
“He has been a model patient and has given his all to ensure he could return to full training in the best condition possible. Clearly everyone at the club is deeply saddened by this news.
“Ryan has, and will continue to, receive the full support of everyone at Newcastle United during this difficult time for him.”
Newcastle also confirmed that goalkeeper Tim Krul will undergo surgery on Monday after he dislocated his shoulder during his side’s 3-0 loss to local rivals Sunderland on Sunday.
The Dutchman is expected to return to training at the end of July, with back-up goalkeeper Rob Elliot set to deputise over the remaining five games of the Premier League campaign.