27-year-old Ham, originally sustained a partial tear of the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during training in late August and suffered a further setback during his rehabilitation programme.

Matthew underwent an arthroscopy yesterday to discover the extent of the injury and it was decided that a full knee reconstruction was required.

Matthew is likely to be sidelined for up-to nine months.

Fury's Head of Football Operations Robbie Middleby added: “We hoped for the best but feared the worst when Matthew had his arthroscopy.

"He is naturally disappointed to be sidelined for an extended period.  He is the life and soul of the dressing room and the club will do everything possible to help him get back to full fitness.

"Although Matthew won’t be able to take the park again for us this season, he will definitely be part of the squad in every sense of the word and will continue to contribute to the club in an off-field capacity during his rehabilitation.”