Malik, 20, sustained the injury during the Fury's 1-nil win over Sydney FC at Dairy Farmers Stadium on 15th December. An initial ultrasound wasn't able to reveal the extent of the injury, but a subsequent MRI has confirmed the tear.

Commenting on the injury, North Queensland Fury Assistant Coach, Stuart McLaren said; "This is really unfortunate for the lad, because he was playing himself into some consistent form and has contributed a lot to the squad this season.

"I know that he has made his mind up to play his football elsewhere next season, but Osama was certainly very keen to give everyone at the Fury; the supporters, his teammates and the coaching staff, everything he had until our last game.

"Hopefully we will see him back on the park at some point during January and he will get the opportunity to finish the season on a brighter note."