Claude Puel has confirmed Marc Albrighton needs surgery on a hamstring injury and may not return until the end of the season.
The winger signed a new contract last month but may not be able to add to his 22 league appearances in 2018-19.
Albrighton missed last weekend's loss to Manchester United and Puel revealed the 29-year-old will be a long-term absentee.
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"We now know [more about] the injury to Marc," he told reporters ahead of Sunday's visit to Wembley to take on Tottenham.
"He's had a serious hamstring injury. It's bad news for us, for the team, and I think he will not be available until the end of the season.