Manchester City FC

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Fresh Bojinov blow for City

17 Aug 2008 - 18:49:10

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Manchester City striker Valeri Bojinov's injury jinx has struck again after he picked up a serious ankle injury before Sunday's Premier League opener with Aston Villa.

The 22-year-old Bulgaria striker made just three appearances for City following his £7million signing 12 months ago after damaging knee ligaments on his first start last season.

Bojinov was expected to start at Villa Park but was carried off the pitch after injuring his ankle in the pre-match warm-up.

He will now be out of action for around six months after rupturing his Achilles tendon.

The injury resulted in a first Premier League start for youngster Ched Evans, but a weakened City line-up went on to lose 4-2.

Speaking after full-time, disappointed manager Mark Hughes confirmed the injury blow.

"It's a huge blow to Valeri and to the team just prior to kick off," he told the club's official website.

"The likelihood is that he is going to be out for six months as he has ruptured his right Achilles tendon.

"It's a terrible blow for him after the injury worries he has had over the last 12 months.

"He did really well to come back and he deserved his place in the team today."