Wolverhampton Wanderers winger Helder Costa has reportedly been ruled out for the first three months of the new Championship season following ankle surgery.
The 23-year-old earned plaudits for his debut season in England last term, scoring 10 goals following his arrival from Benfica and being named the club's player of the season.
According to journalist Tim Nash, however, new Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo will not be able to call upon Costa's services until almost Christmas time as he recovers from an ankle problem he picked up towards the end of the last campaign.
Costa is thought to have undergone surgery on the problem today and will be released from hospital tomorrow in order to begin his rehabilitation.
The absence of Costa is likely to see Ben Marshall carve out a regular spot on the right wing, while Jordan Graham could also be played in that position.
The news all but ends speculation that Costa could be sold on this summer, with the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal all linked with his signature in recent months.
Neil Wilkes
