INJURY BLOW FOR BOSNICH

IT has emerged that Mark Bosnich could be sidelined for up to six weeks due to a hernia problem, which was probably the reason why he failed to make the squad for the Worthington Cup clash with Watford, rather than him sinking to fourth choice in the Manchester United pecking order.

The Australian has had a number of public, and private, clashes with Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson but it would seem that his latest omission was due to a hernia problem, that requires surgery and is likely to keep him on the sidelines for around six weeks.

Raimond van der Gouw was given the gloves for the victory over Watford, with Paul Rachubka deputising, but it would now appear that the Australian was omitted due to injury.

Bosnich`s commitment had been recently praised by assistant manager Steve McClaren, who said: "A lot of players could have given in but it is a credit to him that he is prepared to battle for his place and to work as hard as he is doing.

"I think there is still an opportunity here for Bosnich. It is a case that we have three quality goalkeepers, we are in a fortunate situation there.

"Bossie is working hard, his attitude has been tremendous, he is working probably harder now than he has ever done. He is very much self-motivated and focused on what he wants."

It is now almost certain that Rachubka will be on the bench for the Premiership clash with Manchester City, acting as Fabien Barthez`s understudy, with van der Gouw serving a one-match suspension.