Jay Matete has returned to Sunderland AFC from his loan spell at Oxford United.
The midfielder moved to the League One side in February, but has undergone minor knee surgery that has ended his 2023-24 season.
Matete will complete his rehabilitation at the Academy of Light before an expected return to training ahead of pre-season.
Kristjaan Speakman said: “Jay has had to navigate a really challenging season and after working hard to return to fitness in December, this news comes as a disappointing blow. After assessing his injury earlier this week, we had an honest conversation and agreed that immediate surgery provides the best long-term outlook for his progression. It is a testament to Jay’s character that he is already focussed on returning ahead of pre-season and making an impact, and we look forward to supporting him fully in that process.”