Bolton’s Holden out for six sweek

Bolton will be without US midfielder Stuart Holden for at least six weeks after he sustained a leg fracture playing for his country in a friendly against the Netherlands on Wednesday.

Holden joined Wanderers in January on a short-term deal until the end of the season and had started in the last two matches impressing new manager Owen Coyle.

“It’s disappointing for Stuart because he has come into the team and done ever so well,” said Coyle.

“What we do know is he will come back bigger and stronger, but it is sad for him to miss out at this moment in time.

“He’s come in with a real hunger and desire to do well for our club, and in the two games he’s played, we’ve seen his quality.”

Coyle is hopeful the injury will not damage Holden’s prospects of playing in the World Cup, with the United States’ opening group game against England on June 12.

“Only time will tell,” added Coyle.

“We’re erring on the side of six weeks, and if that is the case then he will be capable of playing the last part of the season for us and putting himself in the frame for the World Cup.”