Bolton midfielder Stuart Holden expected to be sidelined for six months with knee injury

Stuart Holden, Bolton Wanderers, EPL (Getty Images)

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Bolton midfielder Stuart Holden is set to be sidelined for six months with a knee injury following a challenge from Manchester United‘s Jonny Evans in the two sides’ Premier League clash on Saturday.

Holden, who has been one of the brightest performers for Owen Coyle’s side this season, will miss the rest of the season, as well as USA’s Gold Cup campaign in June.

Evans was sent off for the challenge that caused the injury but Trotters boss Coyle refused to lambast the Northern Irishman.

The former Sunderland man was stretchered off with what is suspected to be a leg fracture and learned of his fate on Monday morning.

“First and foremost our main concern is for Stuart and his recovery. He will get all the time and support that he needs,” Coyle told the club’s official website.

“Stuart has been outstanding for me this season and he has shown in his performances that he is one of the best midfielders in the Barclays Premier League.

“He has such desire, strength of character and a winning mentality, and he will draw on all those attributes in his rehabilitation.”

It is the latest in a long line of injuries for the tenacious midfielder, having had his eyesocket shattered during his time at Sunderland, as well as having his leg broken by Manchester City midfielder Nigel De Jong in an international clash with Netherlands last year.