Northern Ireland striker Warren Feeney could miss the remainder of Northern Ireland's World Cup qualifying campaign as he prepares to undergo hip surgery.
The problem is believed to have come to prominence during a recent medical with Leeds United, who were interested in signing the forward from Cardiff City.
The 28-year-old is likely to have an operation this week and the recovery time is estimated at up to 16 weeks.
Feeney scored the vital goal in a 1-0 qualifying win over Slovenia in April.
The player, who was also believed to be a target for Hearts, is set to sit out next month's friendly against Israel at Windsor Park, the away Group Three qualifier in Poland on 5 September and the game against Slovakia at Windsor Park on 9 September.
He must also be rated very doubtful for the final World Cup qualifier against the Czech Republic in Prague in October.
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