Payne will undergo surgery over the next week to repair damage to a torn right lateral meniscus, which is an injury he sustained during Fury's Week 24 clash against Melbourne Victory.

Recovery from such an injury tends to take 6-8 weeks, which means Chris Payne will miss the remainder of the season and in doing so, has played his last match of the North Queensland Fury before joining Newcastle for the 2011/12 season.

Speaking about the injury, NQ Fury Football Operations Manager, Robbie Middleby said: "It's an unfortunate end to the season for Chris and also for Fury fans looking forward to seeing him play next Saturday against Brisbane Roar.

"Chris has certainly made the most of his opportunity at the Fury this season and has played some excellent football along the way.

"He has a bright future and we wish him all the best with his endeavours".