Christian Roberts is set for a frustrating few months (Getty)

Swindon winger Christian Roberts, 28, is facing a long, uncertain spell on the sidelines ahead of next Tuesday's scheduled knee operation.

Manager Maurice Malpas told BBC Radio Swindon: "Robbo will be back as quickly as he can.

"But I think we can safely say he won't be back for the start of next season.

"I'd hate to say it's going to be four months or six months or nine months, because everyone recovers at a different rate," added Malpas.

According to Swindon captain Hasney Aljofree, it's a blow to both the club and player.

"He's obviously down at the moment," said Aljofree. "It's a shame for him because he's such a nice guy and such a bubbly person around the place.

"We'll miss him on and off the pitch because he's a big character at the club.

"Hopefully he'll come through this tough time and come back all guns blazing."