Holden facing World Cup agony after leg fracture

Bolton’s Stuart Holden faces a race against time to be fit for the World Cup after it was confirmed he had broken a bone in his leg during the United States’ 2-1 defeat by Holland on Wednesday.

Bolton manager Owen Coyle said the midfielder had broken the fibula in his right leg and put the recovery period at six weeks, although he admitted that could be optimistic.

Holden, 24, joined Bolton on January on a short-term deal that, Coyle confirmed, is now to be extended until the end of next season.

“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 that Holden will be back in action in time to ensure he is fully match fit by the time the United States open their World Cup campaign against England in Rustenburg on June 12.

“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,” Coyle said.

Coyle said the injury had not affected the club’s view that Holden has a lot to offer.

“We’ve already spoken with him and his representative to assure him he will be here for longer because of the belief I have in him, and the quality he has shown since he came to the club,” the manager said.

“When we signed him, within the contract there was the option there to extend it further, which we will do. It augurs well for his future and that of the football club.”

Holden suffered the injury as a result of a tackle by Manchester City midfielder Nigel de Jong, who was booked but has defended his action.

“I went for the ball and got the opponent at the end,” he said. “I had no evil intent. If the ball is between me and the opponent, you have to go in full. If you do not then the opponent takes you. And if you’re scared in a game you get injured yourself.”