Soccer

Jeff Hendrick facing spell on the sidelines with thigh tear

Derby County midfielder expected to return before the end of Championship season

Jeff Hendrick is facing a spell out with a thigh injury. Photograph: Getty
Jeff Hendrick is facing a spell out with a thigh injury. Photograph: Getty
Tue Apr 05 2016 - 13:56

Jeff Hendrick is the latest injury concern for Martin O'Neill ahead of Euro 2016 after a scan revealed he has a muscle tear in his thigh.

The Derby County midfielder was forced to sit out last weekend’s 2-1 defeat to Cardiff City, and will miss a large chunk of his side’s push for promotion.

However Rams boss Darren Wassall has said the 24-year-old will return before the end of the season, allaying fears he could be sidelined for this summer's Championships.

Speaking to the Burton Mail, Wassall said: “We thought he had suffered a thigh strain on Friday but a scan has revealed a small tear.

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“So, he will be missing for the next few games and we’re in the hands of the medics.

“He’s not going to be fit this week or next week but will be back before the end of the season.”

Hendrick's injury follows Stoke City striker Jonathan Walters undergoing knee surgery last week, although the 32-year-old is confident of returning to full fitness ahead of the tournament in France.

O'Neill has already seen goalkeeper Rob Elliott ruled out of the competition with a knee injury, while Kevin Doyle is recovering from a leg injury he sustained in the 1-0 friendly win over Switzerland.