London - Hull City midfielder Jimmy Bullard will miss the rest of the season with a knee injury, the club confirmed on Thursday.

The 30-year-old joined Hull from Fulham for 5 million pounds (7.2 million dollars) in January, but has managed just 37 minutes for his new club.

He jarred the knee during his debut against West Ham United, and it was initially thought he had suffered cartilage damage.

But further investigation has revealed the injury is more serious than that.

Bullard did not play for 16 months after damaging an anterior cruciate ligament playing for Fulham against Newcastle United in September 16.

He was operated on then by Richard Steadman, the Denver-based specialist, and examination at his clinic has revealed further problems with the ligament.

"Jimmy Bullard underwent a procedure last night in America to repair a torn cartilage," a club statement said.

"Whilst performing the arthroscopy, the surgeon noticed fresh damage to his anterior cruciate ligament.

"In the best interests of both the player and Hull City Football Club it was decided to undertake a reconstruction of the damaged ligament which means that Jimmy will be unavailable for the remainder of this season.

"The club wishes Jimmy a speedy recovery and look forward to his return in a Tigers' shirt as soon as possible." (dpa)