North Queensland Fury have been shocked by the season-ending injury to left-back Shane Stefanutto. The 29-year old injured his right knee in the Fury's 1-1 draw with Perth Glory on Saturday and scans later revealed the extent of the injury.

The likelihood that Stefanutto ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament injury indicates he may be out for at least six months, if not more.

Fury coach Ian Ferguson confirmed the injury and also gave the bad news that Stefanutto's World Cup hopes are dashed.

"He's been one of our better players and how he's out for the season," Ferguson said.

"There didn't look to be much in the challenge and the next thing he's being stretchered off.

"I thought he'd rolled his ankle - it's a terrible blow for the club and for Shane.

"That's his World Cup aspirations gone."