Rotherham United manager Paul Warne has confirmed that winger Chiedozie Ogbene will be out for at least four months after undergoing surgery on a knee injury.
Chieo was handed a setback during training prior to the Millers’ Sky Bet Championship clash with Huddersfield Town last Saturday, going under the knife on Monday.
The surgery has been successful in repairing the damage to the 23-year-olds cartilage, which should mean he will have no further complications further on in his career. Unfortunately though, it now means that the fans’-favourite is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines, with manager Paul Warne confirming he won’t be pulling on a Millers’ shirt this side of the New Year.
“He won’t return for us for a minimum of four months and that is without any problems. We won’t be seeing him this side of the New Year that is for sure," Warne told www.themillers.co.uk.
“They’ve managed to repair his cartilage which is good news for Chieo in the long-term, however it means that he is out longer now.
“We all sent him a video message before his operation on Monday, wishing him the best of luck. He sent me a text yesterday thanking everyone for their support.
“It’s really sad and I know its next man up but he is one of our most influential players. He gets us up the pitch and creates mayhem.
“It’s disappointing for him, but we’re all here for him to help him through it. The physios and fitness coaches are brilliant here so he’ll come back. Mental attitude is essential in life and he’s definitely got a really positive one.”
Due to the nature of Chieo’s injury, Warne admits that he may need to dip his toes into the transfer market, before the close of the window on Friday 16th October.
The manager had hinted that another option out wide was on his radar but it seems this has now intensified following this setback.
Warne though has stressed that anyone he brings to the AESSEAL New York Stadium has to be able to come in and improve his side.
“There is no point signing someone who is no good and not going to play, it has to be someone who improves us, so that’s what we’re trying to do now," Warne explained.
“At this moment in time it looks like we either have to get another winger in or find a different way to play because right now we don’t have an out and out right-winger in.
“I’ve said in previous press conferences that we needed some back-up for Chieo and now he is not there, we might have to find a different way to play if we can’t find a suitable candidate to join us.”