The Shakers' striker has discovered he will need a further operation on his troublesome knee injury.

Bhutia looked to be on the comeback trail two weeks ago when he scored from the penalty spot in the reserves' 3-1 victory over Huddersfield Town.

However, he suffered a reaction, and further tests confirmed that he will be out of action for about five months.

"It's a massive blow for us," boss Andy Preece told Bury's website.

"To lose him, Matt Barrass and Chris Billy with similar injuries is awful luck.

"All three of them started the season in the first team and Bhaichung was going to be a big part of the team this season playing in a withdrawn role with Jon Newby."

Bhutia's contract with Bury expires at the end of the season, and this setback will raise doubts if he will ever wear a Bury shirt again.

However, on-loan winger Harpal Singh has been given the green light to join Bury's FA Cup campaign.