Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe has ruled out Tyrone Mings for the rest of the season.
The towering defender has been sidelined with a back injury since September and has since undergone treatment at a world-renowned hospital in Qatar.
"I don't think we will see Ty this season," Howe told the Daily Echo. "It hasn't been totally ruled out but understanding he is going to need time to get everything right, it will probably be pre-season when we see him.
"We fully anticipate he will be able to do pre-season and train normally, as we stand now. So, hopefully, that will be the case.
"He is in one of the best places in the world for his injury so he is getting really good care. The facilities are unbelievable and we are really pleased with his progress.
"I think it's what he needed. He needed specialist treatment because it is a very delicate injury and his rehab is crucial to get everything right to make sure he comes back complete again."