Fulham have confirmed that Brede Hangeland will be out of action for six weeks, after the defender underwent surgery on a nerve injury.
The Norwegian has not featured for the club since October due to the problem.
A statement on Fulham's official website read: "The Club can confirm that Brede Hangeland underwent surgery on Thursday evening to address a nerve problem in his right leg, from which he has been suffering.
"The procedure went well and the musculature appears healthy following the operation.
"Brede will begin his rehabilitation straight away with an estimated return time of six weeks."
The Cottagers face Aston Villa on Sunday.