Source: Team_Talk
O'Connor news gives Alex the Blues
The 26-year-old had an operation on a groin problem last season but that has now caused problems with the player's hip.[LNB]Blues boss Alex McLeish told the club's official website: "In all likelihood, the big 'un has got to go for an operation and we could be talking three to four months."[LNB]He continued: "Garry's problem is related to what he had last year.[LNB]"He had an operation on part of the groin ligament in there because of wear and tear.[LNB]"I've not got the full technical details but the wear and tear has caused a little bit of bone growth or something has calcified, so he'll have to get shaved because it's affecting his mobility in that area.[LNB]"We think he's got to have an operation at some stage on his hip before he plays again.[LNB]"That is the kind of road we're going down, so it's another man down which isn't great in terms of our striking options."[LNB]With Marcus Bent on loan at Middlesbrough, the injury leaves McLeish with just Cameron Jerome, Christian Benitez and Kevin Philips as senior strikers in his squad.[LNB]McLeish may now have to go into the transfer market in January to replace O'Connor, who has one goal to his name this term.[LNB]"He's basically someone who gives us a wee bit of a presence and otherwise we lack that," said the Scot.[LNB]"Cameron is the outstanding candidate in that respect after O'Connor.[LNB]"Of course we've got (James) McFadden who can play through the middle, but we've got Benty out on loan at the moment, so I need to wrap these lads in cotton wool.[LNB]"I'm not too unhappy with the way the strikers are playing but we just don't want anything to happen to them.[LNB]"They're playing very well and I'm pleased with their form but it's important we keep them fit and also keep Kevin fit."[LNB][LNB] Prem Relegation 2009/2010 Win Outright: Birmingham 11/8
