Victory said in the past few weeks Leijer began to experience severe discomfort in the pelvic region, leaving him unable to participate in any form of training.

After playing through the pain barrier for the latter part of the season, the club’s medical department agreed that prompt surgery was the best option if the 25 year-old is to be fit and ready for next campaign.

The 25-year-old defender had picked up the injury in Tasmania when Victory drew 1-1 with Gold Coast United.

The injury leaves Victory's defensive stocks depleted and coach Jim Magilton with another headache.

Victory currently sit five points outside the top six with just five matches remaining.