Blackburn defender Phil Jones faces lengthy absence
The highly rated Jones is set to miss most of the remainder of the season
Blackburn defender Phil Jones is expected to be out for "three to four months" after undergoing surgery on torn cartilage in his right knee.
The 18-year-old suffered the injury in Saturday's draw with West Ham.
"Phil Jones had keyhole surgery to repair the tear to his cartilage. The operation went successfully," club doctor Phil Batty told Rovers' website.
"The rest of the knee looks fine and he'll now begin his rehab which should be three to four months."
Jones came on as a substitute in the 1-1 draw with the Hammers at Ewood Park but lasted just 10 minutes after falling awkwardly in a challenge with Carlton Cole.
His loss will be a blow to Blackburn as the England Under-21 international has been a regular in their side this season, having made 20 appearances.
Jones, who can also play in a defensive midfield role, made his Premier League debut in March 2010 and is regarded as one of the Premier League's up-and-coming prospects.
Rovers striker Jason Roberts damaged a hamstring and centre-back Christopher Samba was also forced off in the game against West Ham.
The injuries marred Rovers caretaker boss Steve Kean's first game in charge after he had stepped up from his role as first-team coach following the sacking of Sam Allardyce earlier in the week.
Kean saw his side lose a 1-0 lead as they had to settle for a point against a Hammers side who remain rooted to the foot of the table.
Kean disappointed by dropped points
Ryan Nelsen put Rovers in front but Junior Stanislas scored late in the second half to rescue a point for West Ham.
"Getting in front, scoring the first goal, we hoped we could get two or three so the lads are disappointed," said Kean. "They feel as though it's points dropped rather than winning a point.
"But we were left with a very offensive team with no holding midfielder, so I suppose a point, taking all that into consideration, is not too bad."
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