Tate joined Swansea from Manchester United in November 2002

Swansea defender Alan Tate will miss the final game of the regular season after an operation on an ankle problem that has troubled him for two months.

The Swans vice-captain had the successful operation on Monday, which will keep him out until July.

Tate, 27, played through the pain barrier in March to help club's injury problems, but has not featured since the defeat at Cardiff City on 3 April.

He is expected back in time for the start of next season.

"Alan's had a piece of bone removed from his ankle,'' said Swansea head physio Kate Rees.

"It's a typical footballing injury. A piece had broken free and was causing him a lot of pain.

"We are waiting for an update from the consultant, but the operation seems to have been a success.''

Tate finally chose surgery after Swansea City's injury problems eased with the return of Angel Rangel to full fitness.

Swansea can reach the Championship play-offs if the beat Doncaster Rovers in their final game of the season on Sunday, and Bristol City beat or draw with Blackpool.

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