O'Brien faces season on sidelines

O'Brien was a first-team regular last season

Bolton's Republic of Ireland full-back Joey O'Brien is likely to miss the rest of the season because of a knee injury.

The 20-year-old defender had hoped to make his first appearance of the season over the festive period after surgery.

Bolton boss Sam Allardyce said: "Joey is on a rehabilitation programme and is going to be out for another three to four months. He's really distraught.

"We have to make sure we get this injury 100% right for the future. It should stand him in good stead."

Allardyce added: "Last season he was on a high after playing 28-30 games. Then he was stricken by an injury that has become increasingly worrying.

"He has experienced the accolades, now he is experiencing the cruelty of the game."