Injury blow for Otten

NEC's Mark Otten is facing a long spell on the sidelines after suffering a serious knee injury.

NEC Nijmegen's Mark Otten is facing a long spell on the sidelines after suffering a serious knee injury.

A scan has confirmed the defender has cruciate knee ligament damage which could rule him out for six to nine months.

The news is a bitter blow to the 21-year-old, who is on loan at De Goffert from Feyenoord.

NEC are keen to sign the Otten, who has made 25 starts this season, but have previously found him too expensive.

Meanwhile, Patrick Pothuizen has agreed a contract extension at NEC.

"I will continue as long as the trainer needs me and I still enjoy it. I'm already looking forward to next season," said the 34-year-old.