It had been thought Perth-born Garcia, 27, had only a minor injury, picked up in training, that caused him to miss City's pre-season tour to China this week.

But scans have revealed he's suffered a crippling knee ligament injury that could knock him out of first team action until Christmas.

The devastating blow at the start of the season could now jeopardise his place in the Socceroos and a possible trip to South Africa and the World Cup.

"Unfortunately it's bad news and Richard could be out for up to three months," City manager Phil Brown told the Hull Daily Mail.

"It was an innocuous training ground accident that sometimes happens in football. As it stands, Richard will be looking at a fairly lengthy lay-off.

"But he's had long term injuries in the past and I know he's strong enough to come back."