Ron Vlaar is likely to miss up to four months after undergoing knee surgery on a torn medial meniscus.
The Netherlands centre-back is currently without a club after he left Aston Villa after his contract expired, but he will now undergo his own rehab before looking for a new club.
The defender posted a lengthy statement on his website explaining the surgery he had and the plans for his recovery.
He said: “Instead of 2 days with crutches, there will now be a 4 to 6 weeks period. Instead of 4 weeks rehabilitation, it will now take 3 to 4 months.
“On hearing this news it was a defining moment, I was stunned and I struggled to keep my composure. Even now when I think about it, the news is very hard to swallow.”
Vlaar felt pains during his holiday and after getting it accessed by a doctor, it was revealed that he needed surgery immediately. It was the same injury that he suffered earlier this year.
The 30-year-old revealed his surgery took two-and-a-half hours and will now take time off before stepping up his recovery.
He added: “Part of being a professional athlete is learning how to deal with setbacks in your career, and having the mentality to come back stronger. I have faced tougher situations in my life and always managed to overcome them.
“I am proud of what I have achieved in my career and I am positive that with the support of the people close to me I will come back stronger again.
Vlaar was linked with a free transfer to Southampton or Serie A side Lazio.
Written by Alex Batt – @AlexBatt