Lewis Grabban to undergo ankle surgery, may return before end of season

Norwich City striker Lewis Grabban is facing a spell on the sidelines as he undergoes an operation on his ankle.

The 27-year-old has scored 12 goals for the Canaries this season, including five in his last five Champions appearances. He is to go under the knife at some stage today.

Despite the setback, Norwich manager Alex Neil is hopeful that the former Bournemouth man will be back playing before the end of the season.

"It's a huge blow. But we've got a big squad and we're now looking for the other guys to step up to the plate," he told BBC Sport.

"It's not actually clear what the problem is, so once it's fixed, we'll have a better idea. He's done very well for us in the last six games, but he's struggling with his ankle."

Norwich are currently fifth in the Championship table following their 1-0 defeat at home to relegation strugglers Wigan Athletic last night.