Scotland injury blows for Arsenal's Kieran Tierney and Everton's Nathan Patterson
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Kieran Tierney and Nathan Patterson had become important parts of a settled Scotland defence
Kieran Tierney and Nathan Patterson are doubtful for Scotland's World Cup play-off semi-final against Ukraine in June, with both defenders requiring surgery.
Arsenal have confirmed "it is likely that Kieran will now miss the remainder of this season" with a knee injury picked up on international duty.
Everton manager Frank Lampard says right-back Patterson's season is also likely over due to an ankle injury.
"Nathan Patterson will be out for certain period of time," he said.
"He will have a small operation on his ankle later this week."
Both defenders face a battle to recover in time for Scotland's delayed semi-final with Ukraine, which is expected to be played in early June following the end of the domestic season.
Having impressed for Scotland in friendly draws with Poland and Austria, Patterson had been due to make his first Premier League start for Everton against West Ham United last weekend.
However, a training-ground injury means the 20-year-old has only played 45 minutes for his new club since his big-money January move from Rangers.
Tierney also played in both recent games for his country, but he felt discomfort to his left knee on returning to club training and was ruled out of Monday's defeat to Crystal Palace.
"A specialist consultation took place on Tuesday and, as a result of further discussions with Kieran and our medical team, it has been decided that Kieran requires surgery to his knee," Arsenal said. "This procedure will take place in London in the forthcoming days.
"Kieran's rehabilitation programme will start immediately after his surgery, at which stage a clearer understanding will be established on his recovery timescale."
Ukraine's visit to Hampden Park, originally set for last week, was postponed because of Russia's invasion of the country.
The winners of that game will face Wales in a one-off game to reach finals in Qatar that start in November.
While Patterson has only recently usurped Motherwell's Stephen O'Donnell as first choice, 24-year-old Tierney is a fixture in Steve Clarke's side, usually playing on the left side of a back three with captain Andy Robertson of Liverpool at left wing-back.
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