Socceroos striker Nick D\u2019Agostino\u2019s hopes of being selected in the Socceroos\u2019 FIFA World Cup squad are hanging by a thread after confirmation of a knee injury that will sideline him for at least six weeks.<\/p>\n
The Roar marksman suffered the injury in Brisbane\u2019s 1-1 weekend draw with Perth Glory at Kayo Stadium.<\/p>\n
Following scans, the Roar sought a second opinion, with a Roar spokesman on Wednesday confirming that D\u2019Agostino had torn the medial collateral ligament in his knee.<\/p>\n
In a statement, the Roar said the 28-year-old forward would be \u201cunavailable for approximately six weeks\u201d.<\/p>\n
The Roar only has six regular season games remaining, and in their current form, will struggle to play finals football.<\/p>\n
Even if the injury leads to the expected six-week absence, D\u2019Agostino may not have another chance to impress Socceroos coach Tony Popovic before Australia\u2019s squad for the World Cup \u2013 which starts in June \u2013 is announced.<\/p>\n
Capped four times for the Socceroos, D\u2019Agostino joined the Roar in January on loan from Norwegian outfit Viking FK in the hope of forcing his way into World Cup selection calculations.<\/p>\n
The Roar has also put a six-week recovery period on English striker Chris Long, who injured his ankle in Brisbane\u2019s draw with Perth. <\/p>\n
\u201cFollowing further assessment and consultation with medical specialists and club staff, both players will begin a structured rehabilitation program under the guidance of the club\u2019s medical staff,\u201d the Roar statement said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe club will stand by and support both Nicholas and Chris during this time and look forward to welcoming them back as soon as possible.\u201d<\/p>\n