The midfielder ruptured ankle ligaments while on international duty for Croatia against Slovenia last week and underwent an operation.

A statement on Portsmouth's website read: "The operation took place at the Hampshire Clinic in Basingstoke and was performed by James Calder, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon specialist in foot and ankle surgery.

"The same surgeon operated on former Pompey player Pedro Mendes last season when he had a similar injury.

"Blues club doctor, Nigel Sellars, attended the operation along with the orthopaedic surgeon to the Croatia national team.

"The 24-year-old will wear a non-weight bearing case for three weeks before beginning rehabilitation. He faces an estimated eight to 12 weeks before being able to play first-team football again."

www.portsmouthfc.co.uk