Stoke City’s Peter Odemwingie has confirmed that he will have to undergo surgery after damaging knee ligaments in last weekend’s clash away to Manchester City.

Though the Nigeria National Teamer and the medical personnel at Stoke City have failed to disclose the attacker’s recovery period, similar ailments take at least six months before the injured player attains maximum fitness.

Therefore, the former Bendel Insurance sensation will miss the 2015 African Cup of Nations scheduled to take place in Morocco.

“It’s confirmed now surgery is required. Really gutted I will miss many games of the season. Will work hard to be back as early as possible.

“We have a strong squad that will do great in the league and I will be back well in time for the Wembley finals.

“Thanks for the support and wishes for a speedy recovery, ” Peter Odemwingie said on his Twitter page.

The 33 - year - old comes off contract with The Potters at the end of the current season.