Cooper sidelined for six months

Cooper recently signed a new one-year contract at Dean Court

Bournemouth captain Shaun Cooper has been ruled out for up to six months following a hip operation, reports BBC Radio Solent.

The utility man, 25, played through the pain barrier at the end of last season but went under the knife this week.

Cherries assistant boss Jason Tindall said: "It's a blow because Shaun is a big player for us. He's got to take the time to get himself right."

Cooper agreed a new one-year contract at Dean Court earlier this month.