Kovacevic suffers injury woe

Mihael Kovacevic is facing up to another four months on the sidelines after damaging knee ligaments.

United defender facing up to four months out

Mihael Kovacevic is facing up to another four months on the sidelines after damaging cruciate knee ligaments. The Dundee United defender suffered the setback while training with his father and is expected to miss the start of the 2009/10 campaign. The 22-year-old was working on his fitness after a hamstring problem curtailed his progress towards the end of last season. During a trip to visit his family in Switzerland, he was jumping for headers when an awkward landing saw him sustain a serious injury. Kovacevic faces surgery in an effort to hasten his rehabilitation, but he accepts that he is set to be out of action for a prolonged period of time.

Disappointed

"I had the scan last Thursday and the results have now been sent to the Dundee United doctor," he told the Scottish Sun. "I think it could be at least three or four months out, which is disappointing. Now I am waiting to be contacted by the club to see when I can get the operation. "Maybe I will come back quicker than expected, but I won't be making pre-season." Manager Peter Houston, who has admitted to being in the market for defensive recruits this summer, is saddened to hear of Kovacevic's latest setback as he was hoping to have the Swiss ace back in contention next term. "I'm devastated for Mihael, especially as it has happened when he's been trying to keep himself in good nick over the holidays," he said.