Melbourne, Nov 30 (IANS): Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson is likely to be sidelined for the entire summer as he would require surgery on his left toe.

Cricket Australia (CA) doctor Trefor James and a surgical team were due to make further assessments on Johnson, and if they confirm that surgery is required he will be operated on in the next 24 hours. Johnson needs an operation to repair damage from a piece of metal embedded near his big toe.

"Mitchell will travel to Melbourne this week to be reviewed by specialist doctors and will most likely need surgery, which is expected to keep him out of cricket for four to five months. The program for his recovery will be assessed following any surgery," Australian team physiotherapist Alex Kountouris said in a statement.

Australian captain Michael Clarke said it was disappointing to lose his most experienced paceman for the Test series against New Zealand, India and probably the West Indies. Clarke, however, felt it would help Johnson overcome his mental demons.

Johnson has 190 wickets in 47 Tests at an average of 31 but has battled for form and consistency since being the ICC's international cricketer of the year in 2009. This year he has been out of form and captured just 13 wickets at an average of 56. He was on the verge of being dropped before succumbing to the injury which flared during his match-winning knock of 40 not out in Johannesburg last week.

"I don't see it as that big a deal with Mitch," Clarke was quoted as saying by The Age. "I think it could have a good impact, to be honest. It will give him more time away from the game to clear his head and get himself fit and strong. Injuries I've seen in the past with a few of our players, that time off has helped them come back bigger and better."

"I think Warney is a great example," he said.

Shane Warne underwent major surgery on his lingering shoulder problem in 1998 but, by the 1999 World Cup he'd returned to his best to lead Australia to the tournament crown.

In the absence of Johnson, any two among the uncapped fast bowlers James Pattinson, Ben Cutting and Mitchell Starc may make their Test debuts at the Gabba against New Zealand in the first Test that starts Thursday.

"They've got the chance to come in and be a part of this great team and hopefully build a career," Clarke said. "For these kids, it's about making the most of your chance."