Brighton & Hove Albion defender Gaetan Bong is expected to miss the next 12 weeks, after suffering a thigh injury in last Saturday's draw with Preston North End.
The Seagulls left-back underwent surgery on a ruptured left thigh tendon on Tuesday, and will face a lengthy rehabilitation period ruling him out into the New Year.
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Albion boss Chris Hughton said, "Losing Gaetan is a big blow for us, as he has been excellent and an important part of our success, and it is a huge blow for him personally.
"However, he is a really strong character and I've no doubt he'll come through that rehabilitation period and be back to full fitness for us in the New Year."
Former Olympiakos left-back and Cameroon international Bong has played 14 games for Albion this season, after joining from Wigan Athletic on a free transfer last summer.