Portsmouth striker Colby Bishop has undergone heart surgery following routine medical checks.
The 27-year-old had the immediate procedure after a routine heart scan as part of pre-season tests showed a potential risk.
Pompey, gearing up for a return to the Championship, have not put a timescale put on Bishop’s recovery.
Bishop told the club website: “Definitely not the start to the season I expected receiving this news. It’s been a really uncertain time for myself, my wife and new baby.
“Despite the difficult circumstance, I am extremely grateful to have been referred to a world-leading expert in a ground-breaking procedure to get me back to full fitness.
“I would like to thank everyone at Portsmouth Football Club for their ongoing support throughout.
“I look forward to playing in front of you all at Fratton Park on my return.”
Bishop, who joined Pompey from Accrington in 2022, scored 21 goals in 48 games last season, helping the club to the League One title.
He has not featured in any of the club’s pre-season games ahead of their Championship opener at Leeds next Saturday.
The club added in a statement: “Everyone at Portsmouth FC is fully supportive of Colby and his family.”