Paddy McGrath is facing around six months on the sidelines after picking up a serious knee injury last weekend.
McGrath sustained the injury playing for his club, Ardara, against Gaoth Dobhair in the Donegal senior football championship in Magheragallon on Sunday-week past.
McGrath and medics initially feared the worst and while the Donegal corner-back has sustained cruciate damage, the injury is not as bad as first thought.
A scan has confirmed that McGrath has torn his posterior cruciate ligament and has also suffered cartilage damage.
Initial fears were that McGrath has suffered damage to his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).
The player will not require surgery, but will now enter an extensive period of rehabilitation.
McGrath could return for the latter part of the 2018 Allianz League.
Ardara have a senior championship relegation play-off to come against Four Masters.
“Paddy is a real pro and he lives his life like a complete pro,” Ardara manager Adrian Brennan said.
“These inter-county boys are so focussed now. They’re very tuned in.
“Paddy knows what is required. There is no doubt that he’ll be a big loss for club and county.”