Sydney FC defender Ben Warland is set to miss the rest of the Hyundai A-League season after scans revealed a tear to the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.

The 22-year old went down following a challenge with two Melbourne City defenders at a free-kick, during Sunday’s match at Leichhardt Oval.

“It’s disappointing for Ben,” said Head Coach Steve Corica.

“He’s been doing extremely well at centre-half but he is a quality professional, he has great strength and character and I know he will come back even stronger.

“We have a fantastic medical department at Sydney FC, who will guide Ben through the process as they have with others before.”

It’s Warland’s second contact injury of the campaign having broken a foot during a pre-season training ground collision.

With Chris Zuvela and Trent Buhagiar succumbing to freak long-term knee injuries in accidental clashes during the early part of the season; plus poorly timed tackles leaving Siem de Jong and Danny De Silva on the sideline more recently, it has been a tough slog for Corica’s men.

“It’s incredible the amount of contact injuries we have had this season, but all credit to the boys and our medical staff who have got on with the job brilliantly,” continued Corica.

“It shows the depth of talent we have in the squad to still be second on the ladder at this stage.

“We expect Danny and Siem back for the Brisbane game while Jop van der Linden, Aaron Calver and Jacob Tratt are fantastic replacements for Ben.”

Sydney FC’s players will train this weekend during the FIFA international break as they prepare for next Friday night’s match away to Brisbane Roar.