By pnefans.co.uk
February 17 2005

Preston today recieved devasting news, as keeper Andy Lonergan was ruled out for at least 6 months after picking up an injury in training. Andy Lonergan will be out of action for a minimum six months after damaging knee ligaments in a training ground accident.

The England Under-21 goalkeeper ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament and damaged the medial ligament of his right knee and now faces a long journey back from injury.

Speaking about the blow North End boss Billy Davies said: "I'm gutted about losing such an important player at this stage of the season, especially in the situation that we are in."

Lonergan has been a crucial member of the PNE side and since returning from a broken hand in mid-December the Lilywhites have embarked on a nine game unbeaten run in the Championship. Davies has ruled out a move into the transfer market to replace the shotstopper and says that the opportunity is now there for others.

"I'm not looking to the transfer market at this moment in time. This club has good goalkeeping cover and this blow now gives the opportunity for other players to come and make a claim for a place in the side.

"I have spoken to Andy and he is absolutely devastated, gutted.

"He has ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament and damaged his medial ligament and he will be out of action for between six to nine months."

North End immediately recalled rookie goalkeeper Chris Neal from his loan spell at Tamworth once they learnt the extent of Lonergan's injury and he will do battle with Gavin Ward and Jon Gould for the first-team goalkeeping jersey at North End for the rest of the season.

pnefans.co.uk would like to pass on our best wishes to Andy at this difficult time, and wish him a very speedy recovery.....