Republic of Ireland captain Robbie Keane is facing six weeks on the sidelines after sustaining a knee injury playing for Tottenham earlier this week.
The Dubliner came off the bench to score a late winner during Tuesday's 2-1 home win over Middlesbrough but then damaged medial ligaments in the closing minutes.
"Robbie has a medial ligament strain and will be out for five to six weeks, although hopefully he'll return a bit earlier because he's a quick healer," Tottenham manager Martin Jol said.
Keane has, indeed, proved in the past - for both club and country - that he recovers quickly and while Tottenham must plan without him over the hectic Christmas period the club are hopeful he could return early in the New Year.
"I am absolutely devastated," the striker said. "Ask the physios, I am the worst person to be around when I'm injured, I am not good at all. I just love playing games and this is a kick in the teeth for me.
"The doctor said it will be five to six weeks, probably leaning more towards six, with it being a ligament problem. I am just gutted and have just got to work hard to get back as soon as I can."
"We're coming into a busy period and I wanted to be involved in it.
It will be the first time I have missed a Christmas since I was 17 and I won't like it."
With a European qualifier against San Marino lurking in February, Republic of Ireland manager Steve Staunton will also monitor Keane's situation closely and pray for no further setbacks.
