Bournemouth defender Steve Cook has damaged his ankle ligaments and could miss this weekend's Championship match against Brighton & Hove Albion.
It was initially feared that the 22-year-old had broken his leg but scans have revealed that no bones were broken.
His potential absence this weekend could prompt Cherries boss Eddie Howe to dip into the emergency loan market, for which the window closes on Thursday at 5pm.
Cook's usual centre-back partner Elliott Ward is also out injured for an extended period with a calf injury.
Bournemouth lie 16th in the table ahead of Saturday's match at Dean Court.
