Bolton have confirmed that midfielder Stuart Holden is set to miss another six months of the season because of knee trouble.
Holden made his first appearance since rupturing knee ligaments in March in last week's Carling Cup third-round win at Aston Villa. However, a routine procedural follow-up on the operation for his knee injury revealed cartilage damage which will keep the United States international sidelined for another lengthy spell.
Wanderers boss Owen Coyle told his club's official website, www.bwfc.co.uk: "It is a big, big blow for Stuart."
He added: "He has worked so hard after he sustained the injury, but obviously the most important aspect is to ensure Stuart's well-being and that's what we are focused on.
"He went in for the procedure this (Wednesday) afternoon and it was picked up that the cartilage was damaged and needed to be repaired, which has now happened, and we will now support Stuart as he begins his recovery."
Source: PA
