Goalkeeper Gordon's season has been hindered by injuries
Sunderland goalkeeper Craig Gordon will miss the rest of the season after being told by a specialist that he needs an operation on a knee injury.
The 26-year-old Scotland international, who previously missed six months of the season with an ankle problem, has been sidelined for the last two games.
Saturday's operation will establish the full extent of the latest problem.
He said: "I have hardly missed a game in my career. To have lengthy injuries back to back is disappointing."
Gordon arrived in a £9m switch from Hearts in August 2007 but this season found it difficult to dislodge Marton Fulop for the number one jersey on his return from his six-month absence.
But he had appeared to return to form with club and country until suffering his latest problem.
"It's automatic to fear the worst, but I'm trying to remain positive," said the goalkeeper.
"It's a possibility that it is the knee cartilage, but it's been the worst season of my career for injuries.
"I have never had anything like this at any stage."
Gordon will be absent as Sunderland attempt to avoid relegation from the Premier League but will be hopeful of being fit for the new campaign and the resumption of Scotland's World Cup qualification campaign.
"When you come to a new club in the first couple of years, you want to stamp your authority on things and I have been in and out, which has not been ideal," he said.
"So let's get this season over and done with, stay in the Premier League and look forward to next season to come back stronger."
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