Djorkaeff boost for Bolton

Djorkaeff's career statistics

Youri Djorkaeff is prepared to wear a protective mask if it means he can face Manchester United on the opening day of the season.

The experienced Bolton midfielder suffered a hairline fracture of his cheekbone in Malta last week.

There were fears he could have been out for six weeks, but Djorkaeff has been given a boost by a specialist in his native France.

No operation is needed - and he is desperate to face United on 16 August.

"My priority is to play and anything is possible as long as it is not dangerous. It would have to be 100% correct," he said.

"It wouldn't matter how the mask looked. I would wear it if it meant being involved in the game.

I will do everything I can in order to be back soon Youri Djorkaeff

"The injury is still hurting but the good thing is I don't require the operation which is a huge relief.

"It could be another six to eight days before I will find out whether or not I can play at Old Trafford. It all depends on what the specialists say."

Djorkaeff admits that the prospect of facing the champions is driving him on.

"This really is a magnificent fixture to start off the new season and I am desperate to play," he told the Manchester Evening News.

"Going to Old Trafford is the type of game nobody would want to miss. I will do everything I can in order to be back soon."

Meanwhile, Ibrahim Ba has been invited to continue training with the rest of the Bolton squad after taking part in the club's pre-season tour of Malta.

The French World Cup winner, who has been frozen out at AC Milan, is hoping to resurrect his career in the Premiership.

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