Senegalese midfielder Pape Bouba Diop is expected to be out of action for at least two months because of a groin injury.

Diop's French club RC Lens said the injury would require surgery.

Diop, who scored Senegal's winning goal against France in the 2002 World Cup's opening match, is expected to undergo the operation later in November.

The club said he should be ready to resume playing in early January.

Diop should be back in time for Senegal's next African Nations Cup qualifier against Gambia in March.