By pnefans.co.uk
February 21 2005

Preston North End's goalkeeper troubles have worsened with the news that Gavin Ward faces a long spell on the sidelines...........

KEEPER CRISIS Ward needed hospital treatment after being knocked out following a blow to the head in Friday's draw with Ipswich. The 34-year-old had been brought in to replace first-choice stopper Andy Lonergan, who will be out for at least six months with knee ligament damage. North End physio Andrew Balderston says that Ward has suffered bruising to his eye, and will need at least two weeks of full rest.

North End physio Andrew Balderston says that Ward has suffered bruising to his eye, and will need at least two weeks of full rest.

"He was in and out of consciousness for five minutes, which was why he was not moved and he suffered a cut on the top of the left eyelid, however, this did not need any stitches," Balderston told the club website.

"We've seen an eye specialist and he has suffered bruising on the back of the eye from the trauma."

"Ward cannot do anything for two weeks after which he'll need more tests," said Preston physio Andrew Balderston.

Preston have recalled third-choice keeper Chris Neal from his loan spell at Tamworth, and he is likely to take over in goal.

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