Holden blow for Bolton

Midfielder suffers leg fracture in USA's friendly against Holland

Last updated: 4th March 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Holden blow for Bolton

Holden: Injury setback

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Bolton Wanderers midfielder Stuart Holden has been ruled out for six weeks after suffering a fracture to his leg on international duty.

Holden was hurt during the United States' 2-1 defeat against Holland on Wednesday night following a challenge from Manchester City midfielder Nigel de Jong.

The 24-year-old was taken to hospital following the tackle and he now looks likely to be out of Bolton's plans until mid-April.

He only joined the Trotters in January on a deal until the end of the season, but had quickly settled into life at the Reebok Stadium.

His debut came in the FA Cup replay defeat at Tottenham Hotspur and he impressed on his first Premier League start against Wolves last weekend.

Holden will now be hoping he can return in time for the closing games of the season to ensure he is fit for USA's World Cup squad.

Trotters boss Owen Coyle admits it is a blow to lose Holden, but confirmed the club intend to secure the Scottish-born midfielder on a contract until the end of next season.

Disappointing

"It's disappointing for Stuart because he has come into the team and done ever so well," said Coyle.

"What we do know is he will come back bigger and stronger, but it is sad for him to miss out at this moment in time.

"He's come in with a real hunger and desire to do well for our club, and in the two games he's played, we've seen his quality.

"We're erring on the side of six weeks, and if that is the case then he will be capable of playing the last part of the season for us and putting himself in the frame for the World Cup."

Coyle added: "We've already spoken with him and his representative to assure him he will be here for longer because of the belief I have in him, and the quality he has shown since he came to the club.

"When we signed him, within the contract there was the option there to extend it further, which we will do.

"It augurs well for his future and that of the football club."