Reid out for the season

15 januari 2007, 13:01

Koen Freriks

Blackburn Rovers' worst fears have been realised with the news Steven Reid has been ruled out for the rest of the season.

Reid had only just returned to training following a near-five-month lay-off with a back injury when he suffered a knee problem in a session on Friday.

The Republic of Ireland international immediately underwent a scan on the injury and the diagnosis of cruciate ligament damage means the influential star will not play again this season.

"We are desperately sorry for the lad," said Rovers chairman John Williams.

"He had worked so hard to get back to full fitness after his back injury and was close to making a return to action."