SYDNEY FC's season-ending disappointment has increased with the news that defender Pascal Bosschaart faces a five-month rehabilitation after scans revealed he has torn his achilles tendon.

The Dutch defender was carried off after falling awkwardly during Friday's disappointing 3-2 elimination final loss in Wellington.

He will be operated on this week to repair the damaged joint. "I felt something crack," Bosschaart said.

"It's painful. At the time it was the most painful moment I had in my career.

"I'll just have to get over it and look forward to next season."

The 32-year-old faces a painful and lengthy rehabilitation to get back on track.

The early prognosis suggests he will not be able to begin pre-season training until barely a month before the new season starts.

Bosschaart has another year to run on his contract and there is no indication he is contemplating early retirement.

He made it clear in the aftermath of Friday's loss that he is determined to be part of ushering in a new era at the glamour club.

The news adds to the sombre mood at the club, with goalkeeper Liam Reddy facing a club disciplinary hearing today over his getting drunk on the flight to Wellington last week.

The episode saw him sent home in disgrace.

The most likely outcome is a fine of up to half a week's wages and possibly a suspension of up to two games, though that would have to carry over into next season.

Sydney will train for several weeks before the players are sent on a four-week holiday.

The club will have to decide how to manage Reddy's situation in the immediate term, while the search continues at board level to fill the vacancies for a new head coach and a replacement CEO.

Follow @Telegraph_Sport on Twitter and like Telegraph Sport on Facebook

Originally published as Defender facing long rehab