Bournemouth striker Enes Unal is set for an extended period on the sidelines after tearing his right anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).

Bournemouth confirmed Unal sustained a contact injury during a “routine drill” in training on Tuesday.

The 27-year-old will undergo surgery before beginning his recovery process with the support of Bournemouth’s medical staff.

It is the second ACL injury of Unal’s career, having also been sidelined during his time at Getafe in 2023.

“First and foremost, our thoughts are with Enes at this moment as he begins to process another significant period of rehabilitation ahead,” a Bournemouth statement read. “He will undergo surgery to repair the ligament in the coming days and the club’s medical and performance staff will support him in every way possible throughout.

“We are all behind Enes and will provide updates on his recovery progress when appropriate.”

Unal’s injury follows Tuesday’s news that fellow forward Evanilson had undergone surgery after suffering a fractured metatarsal in his foot, which had left Unal as Bournemouth’s only recognised striker.

Evanilson is Bournemouth’s second top scorer this season, with five goals in 20 appearances. Winger Antoine Semenyo has previously featured as a No 9.

Unal has featured 17 times in all competitions this season, scoring twice.

Bournemouth return to action against West Bromwich Albion in the FA Cup on Saturday.

(Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)