Sydney FC's defence of their A-League Women title has taken an early hit with captain Nat Tobin sidelined for the rest of the season.
The defender was stretchered off in Sydney's opening-round win over Western Sydney Wanderers, with scans later confirming she sustained a torn anterior cruciate ligament in her right knee.
The 27-year-old is the club's leading appearance maker and will hand captaincy duties to fringe Matildas winger Princess Ibini.
"It's a big blow for Natalie and for us as she is a fantastic leader and we will need to adapt on the field without her now," said Sydney boss Ante Juric, whose side travel to Brisbane on Saturday.
"I know she will be back stronger than ever before, as she is a resilient person who can overcome big hurdles.
"That is the type of character she is, and we will give her every bit of support that we can."
