Midfielder Nana Boateng is set for a significant spell on the sidelines after suffering a lower back injury during Saturday's 2-1 home loss to Real Salt Lake.

The Ghanaian fractured three lumbar vertebrae and, while no surgery is required, he will miss eight to 10 weeks.

Boateng, who joined the Rapids in January from Manchester City, landed heavily on his back following an aerial challenge with RSL midfielder Luke Mulholland.

“This is unfortunate timing for Nana,” said Sporting Director, Pádraig Smith. “He has acclimated quickly to the team and the altitude, and was beginning to show the talent and forward drive we identified when bringing him to the club.”

His last action before limping out of play was his first assist in MLS, starting the move which led to the opening goal from Kevin Doyle. He was subbed out after only 32 minutes of his first start at Dick's Sporting Goods Park, to be replaced by debutant Mohammed Saeid.

“While this is a blow to the team, it highlights the need for roster depth,” added Smith. “And we have two top level players in Saeid and (Dillon) Powers, who can both slot in and play the #8 role while Nana recuperates.”

The Rapids (1-3-1; 4 points) return to action next Sunday afternoon, on the road at Minnesota United FC (4:00 p.m. MT - Altitude).