Montreal midfielder Andres Romero out 6-9 months with torn ACL

The Montreal Impact have been dealt an injury blow at a crucial time in their playoff push, as star midfielder Andres Romero has been sidelined for six-to-nine months after tearing the ACL in his right knee, the club announced Wednesday.

Romero picked up the injury early on in the first half of the Impact's 1-0 win over the Colorado Rapids on Oct. 10. He will miss his team's last two matches of the regular season, against the New England Revolution and Toronto FC.

The Argentine has been a crucial part of Montreal's midfield this season, having scored four goals and recorded four assists in 27 games. His interplay with new signing Didier Drogba has also allowed Montreal to reverse its fate this season and push for a playoff spot once more.

Montreal is in a close battle with Toronto FC and Orlando City for the final Eastern Conference playoff spots.