Leicester striker Darren Eadie has been ruled out of action for a year after suffering a recurrence of a knee injury.
He has been told by specialists he must undergo another operation that will keep him out for the season.
Eadie, 26, missed the final month of last season with the injury and an operation was thought to have cured the problem.
But he broke down in the close season and now finds himself facing more surgery.
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"This is obviously a major blow both for Darren and the club," manager Peter Taylor told the club's website.
"Darren has been told that he really has no option but to have the operation.
"We have to face up to the fact we'll be without him for the season. We wish him all the best in his recovery."
PA