Thursday Feb 14 2008 13:49
Norwich City have sent Matthew Bates back to Middlesbrough after the injury-plagued defender suffered a fresh knee blow.
The 21-year-old has suffered cruciate ligament injuries to both knees in the last 18 months and suffered another serious injury against Hull City in the Championship on Tuesday.
The Middlesbrough-born defender had made just three appearances for the Canaries after joining on loan at the beginning of the month.
"Matty sustained a knee injury in the game on Tuesday night," manager Glenn Roeder told the club's official website.
"When we had it scanned early on Wednesday morning we were hoping it would only be minor damage.
"Unfortunately, our worst fears were confirmed that he had sustained more than minor damage and that he would need an operation.
"It's the third time he's needed to have an operation in the last 18 months.
"He has been assured that the operation will be a success and he will make another comeback.
"He gets on tremendously well with the lads and we wish him not only a speedy recovery, but a full recovery as well."
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