Bullard to see US knee specialist

Jimmy Bullard is stretchered off at St James' Park

Fulham midfielder Jimmy Bullard will travel to America on Monday to see knee specialist Richard Steadman.

Bullard, 27, suffered serious ligament damage in a challenge with Newcastle's Scott Parker during Fulham's 2-1 win at St James' Park on 9 September.

Fulham boss Chris Coleman said: "We won't know the extent of the damage until he sees this guy in the States.

"The chairman is 100% on board making sure the players get the best treatment, no matter what it costs."

Steadman has treated Alan Shearer and Michael Owen in the past and Bullard has been reassured he in the best possible hands.

I told him the problem with long-term injures is not just when you are watching the lads on the pitch - the killer comes when you go home at night and you're by yourself Chris Coleman on Jimmy Bullard

"We've sent Jimmy to Richard Steadman because he's a very, very good player," Coleman explained. "He's someone who will be a massive influence on this football club in the next three or four years.

"Jimmy has to see the best guy available. Any players who will be at this club for a long time will get the best treatment."

Coleman revealed Bullard has been in good spirits since coming to terms with the injury but has warned him he faces some difficult times ahead.

"Jimmy lives, eats and breathes football. Everyone was disappointed for him," Coleman said.

"The first 48 hours were a shock to the system but he's been okay. He's been having a laugh with the lads today and he needs to be involved.

"I told him the problem with long-term injures is not just when you are watching the lads on the pitch - the killer comes when you go home at night and you're by yourself.

"They're long nights and that's what he'll find out. He's desperate to get back, it's just a matter of when."