Midfielder Stephen Pearson is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines after undergoing an operation on his kneecap.

The 25-year-old went under the surgeon's knife on Monday and could be out for as long as four months.

Derby boss Paul Jewell said: "It is a blow to Stephen and to us.

"He has had a problem for a while and has been playing with with the help of an injection.

"The operation went very well but it is a serious injury and will probably keep him out for three to four months."