Source: Daily_Mail
Steve Bruce plays down fears Michael Turner's season is over
Sunderland boss Steve Bruce has dismissed suggestions that defender Michael Turner might not play again this season. [LNB]The 27-year-old has been missing since December 22 after he damaged his knee when colliding with a post as he cleared an effort from Everton's Tim Cahill off the line at the Stadium of Light. [LNB]Turner visited a specialist last week after complaining of pain in the knee following his return to training amid fears that he had suffered a setback. [LNB] Crocked: Turner has not played in 2011 because of his knee injury[LNB]However, despite being given the all-clear to step up his recovery, rumours have been circulating that his season could be over. [LNB]But Bruce told the club's official website: 'We have seen a specialist and the one thing he's got to do now is get his thigh muscles stronger. [LNB]'It's still disappointing for Michael, but we are still hoping he will be back some time in the coming weeks.'[LNB] Turner has been conspicuous by his absence in recent weeks as a defence which for so long this season had proved resilient has been less than effective. [LNB]Of the 15 games the Black Cats have played in his absence, they have won only five, conceding 22 goals in the process.[LNB] Indeed, they have shipped 11 of those in their last four Barclays Premier League outings, all of which have ended in defeat, to severely dent their hopes of securing a top-six finish. [LNB]Sunderland face Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday before Liverpool head for Wearside, and they then travel to big-spending Manchester City after the break for international matches as a tough run of fixtures eventually draws to a close. [LNB]Bruce has had to deal with a lengthy injury list in recent months with Fraizer Campbell, Lee Cattermole, Danny Welbeck and David Meyler, as well as Turner, all missing.[LNB] Bruce hails 'magnificent' Campbell as Sunderland striker nears comebackBruce upbeat about Cattermole as Sunderland star eyes returnMoyes: Beckford CAN establish himself as top Premier League marksmanAll the latest Sunderland news, features and opinion[LNB] Explore more:People: Michael Turner, Tim Cahill, Steve Bruce, Danny Welbeck, Lee Cattermole Places: Liverpool
