Barbiero, who has been battling the injury all season, aggravated his ankle at training last week.

The 26 year old underwent surgery on Tuesday to repair the ankle ligament damage and as he can't start training again for another six weeks, his season is all but over.

"It is shattering, obviously with the finals coming up we’re in a good position, the team has been doing well and I was hoping to be part of it," Barbiero said.

"Now knowing I won’t be part of it is disappointing, but that’s football sometimes and I’ve got to think long term and be ready for next season."

"Hopefully the operation will fix it and prevent me from having any problems in the long term."

Barbieri, who signed a new two-year deal with the club earlier this month, has managed just 16 games this season, mostly off the bench.