Newcastle United have confirmed that Siem de Jong will spend more time on the sidelines.
The unlucky Dutch midfielder has had a terrible injury run since joining the Magpies from Ajax in the summer and his lack of fortune has not gotten any better after it emerged that he has suffered a collapsed lung.
De Jong, who had a similar injury while with Ajax back in 2013, will be sidelined for up to eight weeks after undergoing surgery.
"After four months of hard work getting back to full fitness, it is such bad luck to suffer another setback," de Jong, who had been working back from a groin problem, told the club's official website.
"We are all hopeful that the surgery I have had will ensure I don't have any repeat of the condition in the future.
"It's very sad for me personally, especially since I was almost back in contention and feeling great. I'm sorry for my teammates, the club and our fans that I'm not able to help the team for a little while longer.
"I am determined to come back stronger as soon as possible. Thank you to everyone for your support."
Since arriving at St James' Park in July, the 26-year old has made just two Premier League appearances for the Toon.
BREAKING NEWS: @siemdejong ruled out for eight weeks following collapsed lung. Full story: http://t.co/eOaTqjjRLupic.twitter.com/NattkojGqO
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) February 10, 2015
