Barnet boss Martin Allen has confirmed goalkeeper Graham Stack will be sidelined for up to three months, as the Times Series revealed this morning.

The 34-year-old has not played since the defeat at Bristol Rovers in August due to a hip flexor issue with Jamie Stephens deputising.

And following a second consultation, the former Arsenal goalkeeper has been ruled out until the new year and will undergo surgery on Monday.

Speaking to the club’s website, Allen said: “Graham Stack has been to see another consultant over the past week or so.

“He has had some further scans to try and cure a problem that he’s had from virtually the end of last season.

“Graham is going to undergo surgery on Monday for a groin problem.

“It’s likely to be a minimum of 2-3 months out of action.”

“In one way it’s good to finally get a diagnosis, but of course it’s very disappointing for all of us that such a good player is going to be missing for a couple of months.”

Physio Luigi Cerullo added: “Unfortunately it’s taken a long time to get this diagnosis for Graham.

“It’s a rare and complex situation with him. But I’m glad to say that we’ve managed to reach a diagnosis after seeing a few specialists.

“With the rehab programme that we have in place, we should be able to get him involved after 2-3 months.”