Instead of lining up with Sydney FC against English Premier League heavyweights Arsenal, the former Bathurst Sportsperson of the Year was contemplating surgery.

The talented defender was ruled out of the match which the Gunners won 2-0 after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament in a training accident.

Grant was only in his second week back at training with the A-League premiers, but will now be sidelined for a number of months.

Having torn the anterior cruciate ligament on his opposite knee four years ago, Grant is aware of the recovery process which lies ahead.

"It's disappointing, but I'll be alright,” he told SydneyFC.com.

"These things happen in football and it has happened to me before, so I know what it takes to recover and come back stronger.

"I'm looking forward to getting the surgery and beginning the hard work to get back before the end of the season.

"The boys have been really supportive and I'm still going to be part of the group every day as we look to defend our titles."

Sydney FC head coach Graham Arnold said he hoped Grant would return in time for next season’s run to the finals.

"Obviously it's a blow and it’s devastating for the kid,” he said. “He was fantastic for us last season and we will give him the best medical support he needs.”