Ipswich Town midfielder Cole Skuse has claimed that the team is "devastated" for Luke Hyam after he suffered his second long-term knee injury in a year.
The 23-year-old only featured 18 times for the Blues last season and has not played since January 10 because of a knee ligament problem.
After sustaining another injury during his side's pre-season tour of Ireland, it was confirmed that he is now set for a further four months out.
Skuse told BBC Sport: "It's come out of nowhere. He said, 'I've taken a kick on the knee, is it all right if I sit down?' Next minute he's saying he's got to go back and have surgery and the lads were absolutely devastated for him.
"He's worked so hard, he's such a fit boy and an honest pro - it's hit everyone hard. He's a big loss, he's a very underrated player for us."
Hyam has come through the youth ranks at Portman Road.
