Manchester United has confirmed winger Antonio Valencia will sit out most of the Premier League season.
Valencia underwent surgery on Wednesday night after suffering significant ligament damage and a fractured ankle in a Champions League clash against Rangers at Old Trafford.
The club said the first phase of the 25-year-old Ecuador international's long rehabilitation went without a hitch.
"The operation went well," a statement from the club read.
"A plate has been inserted to stabilise the fracture but there is obvious significant ligament damage that follows a dislocation and he will be out for a good portion of the season."
"Contrary to recent reports there has been no official contact from the Ecuadorian national team. Antonio is perfectly fine, very positive and very determined."
Manchester United host Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday.