SING Tao striker John Clare must undergo another operation on his left knee next week, putting him out of action until the new year.
Clare, 24, injured the knee during Sing Tao's 4-2 defeat by Eastern in the semi-final of the Emperor Exchange Challenge Shield on November 23.
He missed the 1-1 league draw with Kui Tan on December 2 and had further talks with the doctor yesterday, when it was decided that an arthroscopic operation, more commonly known as keyhole surgery, was necessary.
Clare, who has put away eight goals this season, said: ''It is a bit of a setback but if the operation on Tuesday afternoon goes well I should be back in training in two weeks.
''I think there is a slight tear in the cartilage and hopefully it will be sorted out very quickly.'' Clare first injured the knee playing for Kitchee against Sing Tao last January and needed an operation to repair the cruciate ligament.
Former champions South China, meanwhile, are ready to give unsettled Dutch central defender Dennis Koffyberg his marching orders.