STEVEN Thompson is set for surgery on his groin next month, but eased the pain by scoring a late equaliser against his old club, Cardiff City, last night.

The 32-year-old came off the bench to clinch a valuable point for Burnley in their quest for a top six finish, denting the Bluebirds’ automatic promotion hopes in the process.

But manager Eddie Howe revealed he will be without Thompson in March, as the striker needs an operation to cure an infection.

“It’s a shame he’s got this looming over his head because his performances have been excellent,” said the Burnley boss.

“He’s going to have this operation at the beginning of March.

“It’s complicated but he’s got an infection in his groin and he needs to have it sorted.

“We’re delighted that the surgeons can’t get together and do it til March because otherwise he’d have to go under the knife as soon as possible really.

“He might well be in pain but there’s nothing he can do. It’s just a case of getting through.

“But we are going to lose him and it will be a big blow because he’s important to us. Thommo did ever so well when he came on and took his goal really well.”

Howe added that at this stage it is unclear how long Thompson may be sidelined for.

“It could be two weeks but it could be longer, it’s a case of what they find, as with most operations,” he said.

But Howe was delighted the Scot was able to play a significant part in their game in hand at the new Cardiff City Stadium.

“He’ll be delighted that he’s scored against his former club – it’s surprising how often that happens in football,” he said.

“It was a great delivery from the corner and it was a good finish."