Saturday Mar 18 2006 08:24
Fulham manager Chris Coleman is optimistic Heidar Helguson will be able to play on until the end of the season despite the striker needing knee surgery.
The Iceland international and his regular strike partner Brian McBride were left out of the starting line-up for the midweek defeat at Liverpool, but Coleman revealed it was fitness rather than form that prompted his decision.
"Heidar has got a knee problem which might need a bit of surgery at the end of the season and Brian's had a groin problem," he explained.
"The games have been coming thick and fast and they needed a rest - and both agreed with that.
"Brian came on but it will serve them well for the remaining games that they've had a little rest.
"Brian's groin is a lot better but H will need a bit of surgery, so I've been told, at the end of the season so we've got to make sure we look after him and don't lose him completely."
The Cottagers' super-sub Collins John made a rare start at Anfield, but Coleman is likely to recall both McBride and Helguson to face Chelsea on Sunday.
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