SYDNEY FC have been dealt a devastating blow on the eve of the season with the news Trent Buhagiar has torn his anterior cruciate ligament and will be out for the majority of the season.

Buhagiar went down during training on Sunday, with Fox Sports’ Simon Hill revealing the news on the football podcast.

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It’s a huge blow for the 20-year-old, who has surprised many during Sydney’s preseason.

Having moved from the Central Coast Mariners, Buhagiar scored eight goals for the Sky Blues during the preseason including one against the Western Sydney Wanderers in the FFA Cup semi-final.

Buhagiar has scored eight goals for Sydney during the preseason. Source: Getty Images

While Sydney have attacking options, including Daniel de Silva and Alex Brosque in addition to new foreign recruits Adam Le Fondre and Siem de Jong, it’s a devastating personal blow for Buhagiar.

“It’s a blow for me being this close to starting the season but I’m determined to stay positive and do all of the right things to make a full recovery,” Buhagiar said.

“I’ve had a lot of support from the boys and the staff, a few of whom have been through similar injuries and their help and positive words will be of enormous encouragement for me over the next few months.

Buhagiar scored against the Wanderers in the FFA Cup semi-final. Source: Getty Images

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“It’s a long road but I am looking forward to the journey and being back playing as soon as possible.”

Head Coach Steve Corica expressed his disappointment for the Olyroos striker but backed him to return and go onto big things.

“Trent is a fantastic young player and has been great for us since coming in, so to lose him is tough for both him and the club,” he said.

“He is a good person, with excellent character and will return an even better player having gone through this experience.

“We are fortunate that we have some great depth in our squad with Alex Brosque, Adam Le Fondre, Milos Ninkovic, Siem de Jong, Danny de Silva and Charles Lokoli N’Goy all able to fill the void.

“However, we still have room to bring in another player and the fact we still have an international spot available is a bonus for us.”

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