Defoe blow for Pompey

England hit-man faces spell on the sidelines

Last updated: 23rd November 2008

jermain defoe portsmouth

Defoe: Facing operation

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Portsmouth have been dealt a hammer blow with the news Jermaine Defoe believes he may need an operation and a month out of action to solve his calf problem.

England's impressive victory over Germany in Berlin on Wednesday was tempered somewhat by the sight of Defoe limping, as he was unable to come out for the second half.

Defoe, who missed Saturday's 2-2 draw with Hull, is set to see a specialist on Monday and believes surgery may be the only option left.

"I've been suffering for the past three games with the calf injury and it's got to the stage that when I play, I can't feel my foot because of the numbness," Defoe told the Sunday Mirror.

"I have had treatment including acupuncture but it's showing no signs of clearing up.

"Another England player had a similar problem and required surgery to sort it out.

"It's a minor operation but means I will be absent for at least four weeks."

Manager concern

Pompey boss Tony Adams has confirmed that Defoe is definitely out of the club's glamour Uefa Cup tie against AC Milan on Thursday, while he awaits results from the doctor's report.

"He's had this problem before and we've got to get it sorted out for him. We will," said Adams.

"He is seeing a (specialist) guy on Monday and we'll know more about his situation then. I'm not a doctor so I can't really comment at this stage but we'll see.

"No, he won't play against Milan."

Adams also has concerns over midfield duo Lassana Diarra and Niko Kranjcar.

"And Lassana is seeing other specialists (on) Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. So he's got to be a doubt with his ankle. We're covering all bases with them, making sure they get the best.

"Niko's come back from his specialist with a good report but he got a bang on the ankle where he had the operation (in August) and I won't take chances with anyone who is not 100% fit.

"I did that with myself as a player and you can't do yourself justice."