Dons defender Sean O'Hanlon has been ruled out of action until the New Year after undergoing knee surgery.

The 26-year-old centre-half, who joined the Dons from Swindon Town three years ago, first sustained the injury in the April defeat to Walsall towards the end of last season.

And having had the problem operated on during the summer months, the influential defender is unlikely to play again this year.

Assistant manager Karl Robinson confirmed: "Sean has had an operation and we're not looking to have him back until after Christmas.

"He's a great lad and we wish he was fit, but sometimes you've got to play the hand you've been dealt.

"We now need to get in a player who can perform to the same level that Sean has for the last three years."

Stalwart O'Hanlon has made 138 appearances for the Dons during his three seasons with the Club, forming an important part of the MK defensive setup and also weighing in with 13 goals.

He was voted the MK Dons Supporters Association Player of the Year at the Club's 2008/09 Awards ceremony and was also named in the 2008/09 PFA League 1 Team of the Year by his fellow professionals.