Scot Tynes to miss NFL kick-off

Kicker Tynes is set to be out injured until October

Scottish kicker Lawrence Tynes will miss the start of the new NFL season after undergoing surgery on his knee.

The Greenock-born specialist was one of the New York Giants heroes from February's victory over New England in Super Bowl XLII.

Although the operation showed no major damage, he is expected to be out for at least a month.

Former Scottish Claymores and Kansas City man Tynes, agreed a five-year, £3.5m contract extension in March.

However his absence is a blow to the Giants, who begin the defence of their title on Thursday night against the revamped Washington Redskins.

The champions have already lost London-born defensive end Osi Umenyiora for the entire campaign after he injured his knee in a pre-season game against the New York Jets.

Five other British players will feature in the NFL this season as part of the league's International Player Practice Squad programme.

Ex-Claymores linebacker Aden Durde joins the Kansas City Chiefs, Jermaine Allen is with the New Orleans Saints and Jason Brisbane suits up with the San Diego Chargers.

Meanwhile, Shaun Smith has signed for the Carolina Panthers and Marvin Allen begins a second stint at the Pittsburgh Steelers.