Djite’s fears were confirmed today as the results from the MRI scan revealed that the 20 year old had substantial ligament damage to his right ankle.

“I’ve snapped a ligament and tore many ligaments around the ankle so it’s a pretty significant injury,” Djite said.

The injury occurred when Djite was brought down after a Simon Colosimo challenge in the second half of the match against Perth Glory last Sunday.

“The medical staff have told me four weeks," said Djite. "Obviously it’s very disappointing, it’s my first proper season and I thought I started off pretty well.

"To be put out like this is very disappointing but this is just another little hurdle I’m going to have to jump over and hopefully when I get back I’ll be raring to go.”

Djite has been in ominous form this season and is currently the A-League’s joint leading scorer with four goals.

Since the start of the 2007 Pre-Season Cup Djite has gradually cemented his place in United’s lineup in his first full season with The Reds.

The injury is a blow to United and the Qantas Australian Under 23 team, with United aiming to climb up the Hyundai A-League table and the Olyroos in the middle of their crucial final Olympic qualifying stage.

With Djite ruled out, Adelaide’s bad run of injuries continues, the centre forward joining defender Michael Valkanis, marquee signing Paul Agostino and Dutchman Bobby Petta on the sidelines.

These injuries will test the depth of United’s squad giving the likes of Dez Giraldi, Jason Spagnuolo and Shaun Ontong an opportunity to stake their claim in Coach Aurelio Vidmar’s starting eleven.