Ipswich Town have confirmed midfielder Andre Dozzell is likely to miss the rest of the season after tearing a cruciate ligament.
The 18-year-old had to be taken off on a stretcher at the end of the first half of Town’s season-opening game against Birmingham on Saturday.
He now faces surgery, expected to take place next week, which will take him out of action for the rest of the season.
The club said he had seen a specialist last night and added that the surgery had an estimated nine-month recovery period.
Blues boss Mick McCarthy said on the club’s website: “I saw Dozzer yesterday and he was very down time. He is bound to be.
“It’s the season out for him and it’s very disappointing, for us but especially for Dozzer.
“He will get looked after well by our medical staff and we wish him as quick a recovery as possible.”
Ipswich are facing League Two side Luton Town away this evening for their first round Carabao Cup tie – see here for our preview to the game.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here