Meyler ‘devastated’ after suffering serious knee injury

Irishman David Meyler looks set for another long spell on the sidelines after suffering a serious knee injury during Sunderland’s 1-0 defeat of Aston Villa on Wednesday night.

Meyler collapsed clutching his knee in the first half of the Black Cats win and was stretchered from the pitch in obvious discomfort.

The 21-year old had only just returned to the Sunderland side after returning from a cruciate knee injury he picked up against Manchester United at the end of last season.

Meyler had impressed in the five games since his return, forcing his way into a competitive Sunderland midfield including the likes of Jordan Henderson, Lee Cattermole and Boudewijn Zenden, but it now looks as if he will not play again this season after suffering suspected ruptured knee ligaments.

Black Cats manager Steve Bruce admitted that he feared the worst for Meyler in the aftermath of the win over Villa and spoke of his devastation at Meyler’s misfortune.

“We’re really pleased with the result, but the downside for us in the injuries and the really sour note is the injury to young David Meyler,” said Bruce.

“He is devastated and we are devastated for him.”