Last updated on .From the section Leicester

James joined Leicester from Manchester United in May 2012

Leicester City midfielder Matty James is set to be out for between six to nine months with a knee injury.

James was taken off on a stretcher during Saturday's 2-0 win over Southampton and scans have shown he has ruptured anterior ligaments.

The 23-year-old, who has made 29 appearances this season, will undergo surgery on Tuesday.

Leicester are in a Premier League relegation battle, sitting three points above the zone with two games left.

Manager Nigel Pearson said: external-link "He has a fantastic work ethic and is a strong character, which will be important."

James has played in five of Leicester's six victories during their last seven matches, which have helped the club climb out of the relegation zone.