DAN GOSLING may not play again this year after Everton’s injury curse returned in devastating fashion.
Gosling underwent a scan on the knee problem he sustained while clashing with Wolverhampon Wanderers goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann in Saturday’s goalless draw at Molineux.
And the results have shown the 20-year-old midfielder has ruptured his cruciate ligament and is expected to be out for up to nine months, a timescale that would sideline the youngster until 2011.
“I’m really disappointed for Dan,” said Everton manager David Moyes. “He’s been making great progress here at Everton and we look forward to having him back as soon as possible.”
Gosling will now undergo an operation before beginning his lengthy rehabilitation period.
And head of physio Mick Rathbone said: “Our worst fears have been confirmed. Dan has ruptured his cruciate ligament and will be unfortunately be out for up to nine months.”
The England under-21 international had made 17 appearances this season, scoring three goals including one in the 3-1 victory over Manchester United at Goodison last month.
It is the latest in a long list of serious injuries suffered by Everton players during the past 18 months, with both Mikel Arteta and Phil Jagielka having only recently returned from lengthy spells on the sidelines with the same in
jury. While Arteta is hopeful of overcoming the minor groin strain that ruled him out at the weekend, Jagielka is certain to retain his place in the centre of defence for Sunday’s Premier League visit of West Ham United.
