Athletic Bilbao skipper Carlos Gurpegi is not expected to feature again this season after learning that he will require surgery on his left knee.

The centre-back picked up the injury during the 1-0 win over Getafe at the weekend, with subsequent tests revealing that the 33-year-old will require surgery to correct the issue.

The experienced Spaniard has featured in all but two of Bilbao's league games this season, but is not expected to return to action until the start of next season.

Bilbao currently sit in fourth spot in La Liga, nine points ahead of fifth-place Sevilla.