Norwich City defender Leon Barnett has been ruled out for the rest of the season.
Barnett suffered a hamstring injury in the 2-1 win over Reading on Saturday and scans this week revealed he almost certainly requires surgery.
City boss Paul Lambert revealed the news at this morning's Colney press conference and also said he was close to bringing in an experienced central defender in on loan as cover. However, the loan deal is not expected to be completed in time for the player to travel for tomorrow's game at Leeds United.
'He will virtually miss the rest of the season,' said manager Paul Lambert. 'He's got a bad one.
'He has been excellent, it is a blow for us there is no doubt, the way he has performed.
'I will try and bring somebody else in. It won't be for tomorrow.'
The timing of Barnett's injury, with two thirds of the season gone, means Lambert has gone for experience in the loan market.
'I just think this time of the season we will try and get somebody with a bit of experience,' he said. 'It's really, really tough, you have so many obstacles. People don't want to let their better ones out. It's not for the lack of trying - we have tried and hopefully this one will come off.'
Barnett has made 26 appearances for City since his loan arrival – later turned into a permanent deal – from West Brom last August, missing just three through suspension.
Lambert also revealed that midfielder Matt Gill's loan at Walsall would not be extended for another month and that he would be returning to Carrow Road.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here