MK Dons have been dealt an injury blow with the news that defender Scott Wootton will be out for around nine months

MK Dons have been dealt an injury blow with the news that defender Scott Wootton will be out for around nine months with a knee problem.

The centre-back suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament during Tuesday night's Checkatrade Trophy clash with Barnet.

"Unfortunately, we knew from the moment of the collision that Scott had suffered a significant injury, which was confirmed yesterday after a scan," Dons head of sports medicine Simon Crampton told the club's official website.

"Scott is seeing a top London-based surgeon next week. It's difficult to put an exact time-frame on it but this type of injury usually requires a rehabilitation period of around nine months.

"Scott is a professional and very strong-minded character and, between us, we'll ensure Scott comes back in the best possible condition."

Milton Keynes manager Karl Robinson added: "This news has rocked us all - we are gutted. Despite only being with us for a short time, Scott has made a big impression both on and off the pitch.

"He's a leader and well liked by everyone so this is a difficult one to take, but knowing Scott like I do, he'll come back even bigger and better than before."