Tuesday 15 November 2016 13:15, UK
Hull striker Will Keane is expected to be out for 12 months after confirmation he needs surgery on cruciate ligament damage to his knee.
Keane, who joined the Tigers in the summer from Manchester United, suffered the injury in the 2-1 win over Southampton earlier this month.
The news is a huge blow for the 23-year-old, who had targeted a fresh start under Mike Phelan but must now undergo a second cruciate ligament operation in four years.
The first injury saw him miss the entirety of the 2012/13 season, but he had looked to be establishing himself at the KC Stadium having started four consecutive Premier League games.
His absence further stretches the resources of Phelan, who is without forward Abel Hernandez for three weeks with a groin injury suffered in the same match, while Adama Diomande's suspension means Dieumerci Mbokani is the only senior striker available for Saturday's trip to Sunderland.
"Everybody at the club wishes Will well for a full recovery ahead of what is going to be a long road back to action," said Phelan.
"To lose a player of Will's quality and potential for such a long period of time is a big blow, but I'm sure his determination and mind set will see him through the tough journey ahead.
"This is another one of those. Sometimes players can handle that because they've been through it before and I'm sure he will."
