Manchester City have seentheir Premier League title campaign hit with a major blow, having lost midfielder Ilkay Gundogan to injuryduring their 2-0 win over Watford on Wednesday.
The German went down with an apparent knee problem and it is suspected that he may have damaged his anterior cruciate ligament.
Gundogan went through several tests on Thursday, and is set for further examination and assessment on Friday, but the general notion around the club suggests he won't be returning to action this season.
The player himself expects to be out for at least five months, according to theTelegraph.
Manager Pep Guardiola, speaking after the match, described the injury as the 'worst news'.
I am so, so sad," he lamented.
We will have to go without him for a long time. This is the worst news of the day.�
PEP: I'm so sad for Ilkay Gundogan as it looks like we'll be without him for a long time - we will know more tomorrow, it doesn't look good.
The former Borussia Dortmund man appeared to be almost in tears as he hobbled off the pitch, having felt some pain in his knee after intercepting a ball. Hechose to continue playing, however, and it's a decision he has been left to rue.
Gundogan joined City with a knee injury, but had recovered well to make 16 appearances for the club. He also scored five times and supplied one assist in that period, so it's rather unfortunate that he may not be able to play again this season.
We feel so sorry for him because it's been quite tough for him at the beginning of the season," said teammate Pablo Zabaleta.
He has been working so hard and he was playing well.Unfortunately, now it is the same knee. But he has to keep strong and see how bad it is.�