North Queensland halfback Johnathan Thurston has successfully undergone surgery on his injured knee and could begin rehabilitation as early as Thursday.

The two-time Dally M Player of the Year went under the knife to repair a tear in his meniscus that is expected to keep him out of NRL action for a month.

The Test star sustained the injury in last weekend's loss to the New Zealand Warriors but it is hoped he will return for three or four NRL matches before the this year's World Cup.

His chances of being fit for the tournament were further enhanced on Thursday after Cowboys medical staff hailed his surgery a success.

"Johnathan had surgery on his right knee this morning and our medical staff have come back with some good news," Cowboys football manager Dean Lance said.

"It is pretty much into rehab as early as tomorrow so he is back onto the road to recovery.

"The medical staff are pleased they went in and did it, and with the outcome.

Although Thurston is expected to spend a month on the sideline, he has exceeded expectations before by coming back a month early from a double shoulder reconstruction at the start of the season.

"Our medical staff are very conservative on recovery time frames and they are talking about four weeks," Lance said.

With the Cowboys halfback ruled out of Friday night's clash against Brisbane it robs fans of the chance to see two of the game's great playmakers in Thurston and Lockyer going head to head.

"It is a blow for the Queensland derby," Lance said.

"Johnathan is disappointed he won't be playing but he has sent a message to the boys that whoever takes his place in the 17 will do the job."

Cowboys coach Ian Millward is likely to decide tomorrow who will fill in at halfback.

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