Bayer Leverkusen coach Michael Skibbe says there is little hope of veteran Germany midfielder Bernd Schneider playing in this summer's Euro 2008 after his back operation.
"I envisage we will see Bernd Schneider again next season, the operation went very well," said Skibbe.
"There is a good chance he will continue his career, the doctors are pretty positive, but that will be next season and not before."
With 81 caps to his name, Schneider is one of Germany head coach Joachim Loew's first-choice selections, but the 34-year-old is approaching the end of his career and faces a battle to be fit for Euro 2008.
Loew has said he will discuss the situation with the doctors and Schneider before naming his 23-man squad on May 16.
Germany will face Poland, Croatia and Austria in Group B at Euro 2008.
Portugal
Turkey
Czech Republic
Switzerland
Croatia
Germany
Austria
Poland
Netherlands
Italy
Romania
France
Spain
Russia
Sweden
Greece