Bristol City today announced that experienced midfielder Gary O'Neil would be out for the next three months after his injury required surgery.

The ex-Portsmouth player featured four times for the Robins in August but has since suffered with an injury to the back of his knee.

Initially, the club had hoped that injections would settle the issue but they today revealed the 34-year old would require surgery that will keep him out until the new year.

Manager Lee Johnson told the club's media this was the last resort.

“It's very difficult for players when they pick up these injuries. We've tried everything possible to help him through non-operative measures to try to get him right. The only step now is surgery.”

“He'll go under the knife in the coming days and that will mean him being out for a minimum of 12 weeks.”

Whilst O'Neil hasn't featured in Bristol City's tremendous run, he will still be a miss given the need for depth in the squad.

The Verdict

It's a shame for Gary O'Neil who will now miss a large chunk of the season with the injury and it's a minor blow for Johnson.

Suspensions and injuries are inevitable over the coming months and he would've liked to have been able to turn to someone with the experience of O'Neil who could fill in with ease.

However, Bristol City have excelled without him in recent weeks and will hope they can continue that run going forward.

What do you think Bristol City fans? Is losing O'Neil a big blow? Will you miss his experience? Let us know in the comments below.