Vince Lia's injury curse has continued with a knee injury curtailing the Wellington Phoenix right back's season before it even began.
During Sunday's 1-0 Pre-Season Cup win over the Central Coast Mariners, Lia was caught in a tackle and fell awkwardly on his left leg.
Phoenix medical staff initially hoped the injury was not too serious but scans on Tuesday revealed he had torn the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, requiring surgery and a nine-month layoff.
Lia missed a large part of the Phoenix's inaugural A-League season in 2007/08 with a thigh injury and is understandably gutted with his latest setback.
"Vinnie had worked extremely hard during the pre-season and was probably in the best condition he's ever been. To miss the whole season is devastating for the young guy," Phoenix coach Ricki Herbert said.
"It wasn't a nasty tackle or challenge; it [the injury] was just one of those freak accidents."
Herbert had big plans for Lia in his new right back role, having converted from the midfield to a position that has been a troublesome one for the Phoenix.
"He's a great athlete with terrific ability and potential. I had very high hopes for Vinnie playing at right back for us this season and he was certainly very excited about the challenge.
"The club is right behind Vinnie and he'll be receiving the best care.
"We'll be working very hard to get him back to full fitness as soon as possible because he's an integral part of the squad and of the club's plans for the future."
Lia's loss is offset by the recent signing of All Whites defender David Mulligan, although the Phoenix will now pursue a long-term replacement for Lia.
Phoenix chief executive Tony Pignata says that process is already under way.
"We've got a couple of players coming next week to trial, so we'll assess how they go and how they fit into the squad. Fortunately, we've still got some time to assess our options."
Following the encouraging win over the Mariners, the Phoenix play their next Pre-Season Cup match against a strong Queensland Roar side on the Sunshine Coast on Sunday.