Gavin Bazunu will be sidelined for at least nine months following surgery on a ruptured Achilles tendon.
The 22-year-old Southampton goalkeeper, who has won 22 caps for Ireland, will aim to resume playing before the end of next season.
“Gavin had an operation yesterday,” said Russell Martin, the Saints manager. “He’s ruptured his Achilles tendon so it was as bad as we feared. He will be out for around nine to 10 months.
“I spoke to him before the operation and he wasn’t in a good place but last night he was way more positive. We will rally behind him.
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“We’re really devastated for Gav. But he’ll get through it and be stronger for it. We look forward to seeing him on Monday.
“Gavin has had a huge setback, there will be some dark and lonely moments over the next 10 months. We will support him and get around him.”
Bazunu’s injury provides an opportunity for Liverpool’s Caoimhín Kelleher to have a sustained period as first choice Irish goalkeeper, starting with the June friendlies against Hungary and Portugal.
