Aston Villa defender Martin Laursen will be sidelined for the rest of the season after undergoing surgery on his knee.
The 28-year-old Denmark centre-back travelled to America earlier this week for surgery and while the operation was a success, he will be out of action until the start of next season.
Laursen had hoped to establish himself at Villa Park after last season was ruined by injury, but he made just one appearance this season before he was again ruled out.
Villa boss David O'Leary said: "I've spoken to our physio Alan Smith, who flew out with Martin, and he's confirmed we won't see him in action again this season."
"It's a blow, but I suppose it's one I was prepared for. I was looking at Martin in pre-season and thinking he wasn't 100% right."
Laursen arrived at Villa Park from AC Milan in a £3million deal at the start of last season, with O'Leary looking to build his defence around the Dane.
But Laursen made just 13 appearances last season as Villa came up short in their search for European qualification, finishing 10th.
