Reading top scorer Tom Ince is to miss the final two matches of the season after having an operation on his hip.
The 31-year-old leads the way for goals and assists this season, scoring nine under the management of father Paul.
Yet to feature under interim boss Noel Hunt, there had been hopes that the forward would return in time for two crunch clashes with relegation rivals Wigan Athletic and former side Huddersfield Town.
However, injury has prevented this from happening. With two years remaining on his Royals contract, he is due to return over pre-season.
In other injury news, Tom McIntyre, Shane Long and Junior Hoilett could all play a part in the final two matches- but forward Yakou Meite is not expected back until the final day trip to Yorkshire at the earliest.
Speaking ahead of a home game to Wigan, Hunt said: "Tom’s done. Tom had an operation. It was actually worse than he thought, and he was trying to play through it, to be fair to him, he’s had an op so hopefully we will see him back in pre-season. Yakou was on the grass today, but not with us, so we will touch base with the physios and see what he’s saying. It probably won’t be this week, probably next week.
"He’s [Junior Hoilett] getting closer. He’s done more work this week in with us so it’s positive."
Andy Carroll is still serving a suspension, returning for the final match at the John Smith's Stadium.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here