HULL City defender Paul McShane appears unlikely to play again this season after scans revealed he damaged ankle ligaments in Saturday's 2-1 defeat to Nottingham Forest.
McShane was forced off after 28 minutes of the weekend loss and although x-rays returned clear on Saturday evening, MRI scans on his right ankle yesterday have confirmed fears of ligament damage. A visit to a specialist is expected to shed further light on the extent of his lay-off.
With less than seven weeks of the Tigers' promotion challenge remaining, it leaves the Republic of Ireland international facing an uphill battle to play any further part in the season.
Although City are blessed with strength in depth at central defence, with James Chester, Jack Hobbs, Alex Bruce, Abdoulaye Faye and Ahmed Fathi all available, the loss of McShane will be a blow for manager Steve Bruce.
The 27-year-old fans' favourite has enjoyed a resurgent season at the KC Stadium, making 27 league and cup appearances.
McShane's current contract is due to expire this summer, but he has received assurances from Bruce that a fresh offer will be forthcoming.
