The 29-year-old will undergo an operation in Australia today to repair a damaged cruciate knee ligament which is expected to keep him out for at least six months.

Emerton sustained the injury playing for his English Premier League club Blackburn in the goalless draw at Middlesbrough on January 31 and admits it is difficult to cope with the knowledge he will not play again this season.

"I couldn't believe it when they told me I was going to be out for six months with a knee reconstruction," he said.

"I've never had a long-term injury throughout my career, so for me to face six months out is something I've never experienced before. I see it as another test for me, something I've got to get through and I'm sure I will.

"And I'll be back just as good as ever, if not better."

The injury means Emerton can only sit and watch Rovers' battle to avoid relegation from the Premier League and also Australia's bid to reach the 2010 World Cup.

"Hopefully the Aussie boys will qualify for the World Cup and the boys at Blackburn will rally together and stay in the Premier League this season," he told the Lancashire Telegraph.

"It's just so disappointing because we've got a very important few months with Blackburn and with the Socceroos and it's a shame I'm not going to play a part in any of that.

"There are a lot of positives. If it was this time next year, then I'd be looking at possibly missing the World Cup.

"That would be twice as bad, so I'm trying to put a positive spin on it."

Emerton's absence means transfer window signing El-Hadji Diouf is likely to get an extended run on the right of midfield.