The central defender will mess the next three months of action after suffering a groin adductor injury. 

Durante picked up the injury in Wellington's controversial 3-2 loss away to Sydney FC on Sunday. 

It comes at an awful time for the 35-year-old, with a spot in the World Cup also on the line next month. 

Durante was set to play a big part in New Zealand's play-off tie with Peru in November, but now the All Whites will also be missing a crucial part of their team. 

For the Phoenix, fellow defender Marco Rossi is also suffering with a groin injury of his own, leaving them vulnerable at the back against Melbourne City on Friday. 

Phoenix are seventh on the table after two rounds, having picked up one point from a possible six.