Reading FC defender Harlee Dean is expected to miss around six weeks of action after suffering a calf injury.
Dean started Reading’s match last weekend at Huddersfield Town but was withdrawn in the first-half after picking up an injury and replaced by Amadou Mbengue.
Manager Noel Hunt has now confirmed that he believes the centre-back will be on the sidelines from four to six weeks after undergoing a scan.
Dean has been a peripheral figure during his time at the club until late.
Mostly used as a back-up option under Ruben Selles, he played just 11 times in League One last season in his debut season for the Royals.
However, he has been used more frequently in recent months after Mbengue missed some games with an injury.
Dean has put in some impressive displays, using his experience and leadership to help navigate a relatively young side.
The 33-year-old has already featured more this season than he did last and has racked up a total of 22 games, including 18 League One appearances.
Reading are in action today (Saturday) when they host 14th placed Rotherham at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
