By Mark Heys
December 21 2006

Bolton could be without the services of Joey O'Brien for the rest of the season as he struggles to recover from a troublesome knee problem. The 20-year old has been out of action since injuring his knee in a pre-season friendly at Burnley last summer and is currently in the USA undergoing a strict rehabilitation programme.

O'Brien was a surprise discovery of the Bolton team last season as he played most of the season at right back following the successful conversion from midfield but this current campaign has been frustrating for the Irishman.

"Joey is really distraught. When he finished here last year he was on a high after playing 28-30 games." explained Wanderers manager Sam Allardyce

"Then before the season got under way, 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.

"Joey is on a rehabilitation programme and is going to be out for another three to four months. As he has had surgery we have to make sure we get this injury 100% right for his long-term future. It should stand the lad in real good stead."

With the youngster absent from first team duty for the foreseeable future, Allardyce could dip into the transfer market for a right full back to compete with current choice Nicky Hunt.