Sporting Life quotes Terry Butcher saying, "Kevin had an exploratory operation on Wednesday and will now need major surgery in three weeks to repair the cruciate ligaments.
"The rest of his knee is fine, but this injury could keep him out until Christmas.
"It is a huge blow to us as Kevin has been absolutely fantastic this season.
"The injury came after our goalkeeper, Barry John Corr, rolled the ball out to Kevin, who took a touch as Golabek came in for the tackle. As he tried to nick it, his knee was caught in the collision.
"There was nothing wrong with the challenge. It was fair, but it was a strong challenge and caught Kevin right on the knee.
"It is a similar injury to the one which has kept Brian Kerr out for most of the season.
"But, if Kevin comes back in the same way Brian is starting to play, it will be a major boost for us."