Monday, September 14, 2009

Neville faces 'lengthy lay-off'

Phil Neville (left) and John Paintsil
Fulham's John Paintsil calls for aid for Neville at Craven Cottage

Everton have confirmed that captain Phil Neville damaged knee ligaments in Sunday's Premier League match at Fulham and may face "a lengthy lay-off".

The 32-year-old midfielder was hurt in a challenge with Fulham's Dickson Etuhu during the Toffees' 2-1 defeat.

Everton physio Mick Rathbone confirmed on the club's website that an MRI scan had revealed the extent of the injury.

"It's too early to estimate length of absence but I fear he certainly faces a lengthy lay-off," added Rathbone.

The versatile England international will rest for 48 hours to decrease the swelling on his knee before seeing a specialist in London.

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A decision will then be made on how best to treat the injury.

His absence means the club have problems on the right side of defence for the visit of AEK Athens on Thursday in the Europa League.

New signing John Heitinga is ineligible and Tony Hibbert is suspended after being sent off against Sigma Olomouc in the previous round.

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