Alex Santos is expected to miss the remainder of the season after suffering a thigh injury against Kashiwa Reysol.

After making his first start of the season at the weekend after returning from a similar injury suffered in March, the 30-year-old Brazil-born midfielder limped off after just 15 minutes and will now be sidelined for six months.

Santos also suffered a similar injury last November while playing with Austrian club Salzburg.

"I went into the game with a lot of confidence but ended up with what I hadn't expected," Santos told the club's official website.

"It's a pity that I cannot meet the people's expectation but it looks difficult for me to play again in the season.

"I'd like to focus on recovering from the injury so that I can play again."

Santos will consult a doctor in his native Brazil before opting for surgery.