Ipswich Town midfielder Luke Hyam has suffered a setback in the recovery from his knee injury and might not play until November.
The 23-year-old only featured 18 times for the Blues last season and has not played since January 10 because of a knee ligament problem.
He reported back fully fit at the start of pre-season, but has now done more damage to his knee and undergone surgery today.
"He's suffered a setback and could be looking at three-and-a-half to four months out," Tractor Boys boss Mick McCarthy told the club website.
"He's rehabbed twice now and he's had surgery this morning. Hopefully that will get him right but it's a big loss for us and my heart breaks for him."
Ipswich, who lost in the Championship playoff semi-finals to bitter rivals Norwich City last term, play their first pre-season friendly of the year later this afternoon against Irish outfit Shelbourne.
