By Chris O'Brien
November 23 2005

Manchester United's out-on-loan defender Paul McShane has picked up a serious ankle ligament injury. Having established himself in the Brighton first-team, the 19-year-old could now be in the treatment room for up to three months.

Out-on-loan Manchester United defender Paul McShane has suffered a major injury setback as he looks to impress with Brighton & Hove Albion. The Irishman, highly rated by the Old Trafford coaching team, is facing a three-month spell on the sidelines after damaging ankle ligaments during the Seagulls' 1-1 draw at Cardiff City.

"It's a massive blow to us and the lad. He has showed commitment to our cause and our team that's way above the call of duty." said manager Mark McGhee, who is desperate to life his side out of the Championship relegation zone.

The Brighton boss went onto reveal his desire of signing the teenager on a permanent basis, adding: "We want him here in the long term - hopefully we can do that - but it's a setback for us"

McShane now faces a real test to try and complete a speedy recovery. The Republic of Ireland Under-19 international has done superbly to establish himself in Brighton's side, netting three times from twenty appearances, and may even fancy his chances of breaking into the United first-team in the future.