Wellington's injury crisis continues to deepen, with key defender Luke DeVere set to miss up to three months due to a knee concern.
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A day after the Wollongong-based Phoenix bolstered their attack by signing former Sydney FC striker Charles Lokoli-Ngoy, the A-League club revealed that DeVere would need surgery for the injury he sustained during Sunday's 2-0 loss to the Mariners.
"Luke is an important part of our team, not just for what he brings on the field but for his voice and mentoring of the younger players - and we expect the latter to continue even while he recovers from his injury," Phoenix head coach Ufuk Talay said.
"We wish Luke all the best with his surgery and ongoing recovery and hope to see him back on the field again later this season."
DeVere's setback comes as the Phoenix's depth continues to be tested by a series of injuries, while David Ball will miss two A-League matches due to suspension.
Star recruit Tomer Hemed is set to miss another fortnight due to a hamstring strain, while fellow forward Jaushua Sotirio will miss another month due to a knee injury.
Defender Joshua Laws sustained an ankle injury during the Mariners loss, but could play against the Wanderers this Sunday at WIN Stadium, depending on the outcome of a scan.
In better news for the team, midfielder Cameron Devlin is set to return after missing last week's game.