Bournemouth confirm defender Adam Smith will be out for up to three months after undergoing knee surgery

The 27-year-old was stretchered off during the first half of the Cherries' 2-1 defeat to Newcastle earlier this month

Bournemouth have confirmed that defender Adam Smith will be out of action for up to three months with a knee injury.

Smith was carried off the pitch on a stretcher during the first half of Bournemouth’s 2-1 defeat against Newcastle at St James’ Park prior to the international break.

Initial reports suggested that the 27-year-old had damaged ligaments and could be set for a long absence, but Bournemouth revealed the defender will return this season.

“Following extensive medical assessment, Smith’s injury is not as bad as first feared, and on Saturday the 27-year-old underwent a procedure to repair a cartilage tear in his right knee,” a statement issued on the club’s official website read.

Bournemouth manager Howe feared Smith had suffered a serious injury (Getty)

Speaking after the Newcastle game, Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe said of Smith: “It looks like a knee injury. I don't know the extent of that but it looks a serious one.

“He is in a bit of pain in the changing room. It disrupted the flow of the game – a long delay – and players concerned for a respected teammate.

“That didn't help us and we lost Jefferson at half-time – so the couple of injuries rocked us.”

A graduate of Tottenham’s youth academy, Smith has established himself as a key figure for Bournemouth since joining the club on a free transfer in January 2014, making 140 league appearances for the club and performing well as a full-back, wing-back and wide midfielder.

This season Smith has started all 12 of Bournemouth’s matches in the Premier League, meaning his absence will force Howe into a defensive reshuffle.