Hoolahan out for season

Matthew Chambers Influential Norwich City midfielder Wes Hoolahan is unlikely to play again this season having been ruled out through injury. A scan and subsequent exploratory operation revealed ankle ligament damage and means that Hoolahan will be out for at least six weeks - effectively ending his season with the Canaries.

Matthew Chambers

Influential Norwich City midfielder Wes Hoolahan is unlikely to play again this season having been ruled out through injury.

The 26-year-old Republic of Ireland international was substituted at half-time having taken a knock in the 1-0 win over Plymouth on Saturday. A scan and subsequent exploratory operation yesterday revealed ankle ligament damage and means that Hoolahan will be out for at least six weeks - effectively ending his season with the Canaries.

City manager Bryan Gunn was obviously disappointed at the news. He said: "It's a devastating blow in our current situation. Wes has been a big player in recent weeks and losing him for one game would have been bad enough, never mind the remaining games of the season.

"But we have to remain positive and this is now an opportunity for one of a number of players who have been waiting for their chance on the sidelines to get into the action in the crucial games ahead."