Hibs are facing a defensive injury crisis with the news Rocky Bushiri has been ruled out for approximately three months.
The towering defender, who seemed to be forming a functional partnership with want-away star Ryan Porteous, is now facing the rest of the season on the sidelines but has avoided a broken leg. The defender was stretchered off during Sunday’s 3-0 defeat to Hearts in the Scottish Cup after a collision and scans have revealed an ankle injury will keep him out.
With Scotland cap Porteous close to sealing a move to Watford, it leaves boss Lee Johnson with limited options at centre-half amid a crucial point in the season. The Englishman admitted he had seen an improvement in Rocky while the player revealed his determination to come back as soon as possible for Hibs.
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Johnson told the club's site: “Firstly we’re all gutted for Rocky and wish him a speedy recovery. Rocky is an important player for us, and we felt like he was getting better week on week.
“We will provide him with all the support he needs, rally around him, and help him return fitter and stronger than before.”
Rocky Bushiri added: “This injury has been difficult for me to get my head around, but I have to stay positive and focus on returning stronger. I felt like Hibs fans were starting to see the best of me, so I’m determined to come back an even better player and hope to see all the fans soon.”
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