Jay Rodriguez will miss the World Cup in Brazil after Southampton confirmed the extent of his knee injury sustained against Manchester City.
The forward came off after 26 minutes of the Saints' Premier League game on Saturday and the club revealed he has ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament.
A statement on the Southampton website said: "This will keep him out of action for six months and regrettably means he will not be fit for selection by the English national team at this summer’s FIFA World Cup in Brazil."
Following a scan of his knee, Rodriguez met with a specialist knee surgeon and will undergo a routine operation soon.
Les Reed, Director at Southampton Football Club, commented: “Jay is naturally disappointed, but is determined to get back playing for Saints as soon as possible.
“Everything will be done to return him to full fitness and deliver a speedy recovery."
