Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Steve Sidwell has suffered a fresh injury blow after picking up an ankle problem in training.
The 35-year-old has not featured for the Premier League club this season because of a long-term back injury.
Sidwell is now set for yet more time on the sidelines, according to Seagulls manager Chris Hughton.
"Steve Sidwell has also had an ankle problem over the last week," the 59-year-old told reporters.
"Certainly as regards having him available over the next few months that won't be the case.
"With any injury and any player, it's always a blow and a bigger blow for the individual themselves. But we have to continually try to assess what we have.
"We've been without Steve Sidwell for the season so far. It's not a player at this particular moment who's been playing and is now injured."
Sidwell made 34 Championship appearances last season as the Seagulls returned to the top flight after a 34-year absence.
Giuseppe Labellarte
