The news went from bad to worse for Stuart Holden in a matter of hours.
Previously thought to be missing six weeks of action after needing a routine follow-up procedure on his surgically repaired knee, now Holden is set to miss the next six months of action, according to his club, Bolton.
Holden reportedly underwent the procedure on Wednesday and it revealed cartilage damage, which severely alters his recovery timeline.
"It is a big, big blow for Stuart because he has worked so hard after he sustained the injury, but obviously the most important aspect is to ensure Stuart's well being and that's what we are focused on," Bolton manager Owen Coyle said on the club's website. "He went in for the procedure this afternoon and it was picked up that the cartilage was damaged and needed to be repaired, which has now happened, and we will now support Stuart as he begins his recovery."