Derrick Williams is out for the season and will miss Ireland’s opening games in the World Cup qualifying campaign.
The Blackburn Rovers defender has had an operation to reattach his hamstring and has not played since December 12.
Rovers boss Tony Mowbray said: "I do not think Williams will play again this season. He has had the operation.
"Defensively we have missed the likes of Derrick. He is very experienced and has been with me for nearly four seasons at Blackburn.
"He is an international player who is not available. He is a left-sided defensive player where he has been missed."
Williams, 27, has three caps for Ireland but had to pull out of Stephen Kenny’s squad ahead of the Wales game in October for Covid-19 related reasons.
Meanwhile, Millwall have had a bid for Ireland midfielder Jayson Molumby turned down.
Molumby excelled on loan with the Lions last season but Brighton don’t want to sell him but will consider another temporary switch with Preston also linked.
