The keyhole surgery has been deemed a success but it is too early to say when he will return to the pitch - but it is improbable that he will make it by the start of the coming season.

It is thought that he might be out for as much as two months, though this could be reduced if his rehabilitation goes well.

Doctors are hesitant to say how long he will be out for until his rehabilitation is in full swing and he has undergone more testing on the knee.

Mphela is determined to give the injury as much time as possible to heal to put an end to the problems that have hampered him on and off for the past 12 months.

The 27-year-old played in pain for most of the latter half of last season.

He managed to score only one goal in 15 appearances because his mobility was seriously impaired.