Boyata sidelined for six

Bolton’s on-loan defender Dedryck Boyata will miss six weeks of football, due to an ankle injury.

The Manchester City youngster has started five times for Owen Coyle’s men this season, scoring once, but Bolton’s already troubled defence will be further under pressure after Boyata picked up a knock in their 2-0 loss to Sunderland last Saturday.

Coyle confirmed Boyata’s prolonged absence, and added that the 20-year-old would consult with medical staff at both Manchester City and Bolton to enhance his rehabilitation.

“Dedryck is going to be out for up to six weeks with ankle ligament damage,” Coyle said.

“It’s a shame, first and foremost for Dedryck because he has shown what a top player he is capable of being, and then secondly for the team and the club.”

“Part of the arrangement in the loan contract was that, if an injury did occur, then he would report back to City and liaise with our club doctor and the medical team here. That is what will happen.”

Boyata is on a season-long loan at the Reebok Stadium, and will join fellow defenders Tyrone Mears and Sam Ricketts on the sidelines for Coyle’s men.

Bolton sit in 18th spot on the English Premier League table, with just six points from nine games.