Bohemians have been dealt a substantial setback after just one game of the Men's Premier Division with confirmation that Rob Cornwall suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury last Friday against Sligo Rovers.
Cornwall returned to the club after two years in America as a major signing for Declan Devine’s side for the new campaign.
The 29-year-old’s league experience and nous was seen as key for Bohemians given captain Keith Buckley suffered a serious knee injury last year and will not return until the second part of 2024.
However Cornwall went down after just over 30 minutes of the league opener last Friday and was helped from the pitch in clear discomfort.
Scans have confirmed Cornwall suffered serious ligament damage and it is possible he could miss all of the season, with no clear time frame given by Bohs at this juncture.
Midfielder Jordan Flores had to deputise for Bohs when Cornwall went off as they are already short on defensive options due to a difficult transfer window for Devine.
The match finished in a 2-2 draw.
The Bohs boss said: "It's devastating news for the group to lose such an inspirational player, and Rob himself is obviously devastated too.
"Rob is an extremely talented player, a leader within the group and someone I tried to bring back to the club before the start of last season so to finally get him in and to lose him after just 30 minutes is clearly a massive blow for us.
"Recovering from an ACL injury is a long process and we will give Rob all the support that he needs, both on and off the pitch, during his recovery."
The transfer window will close on Thursday, meaning there is even greater need to bring in defensive recruits.
Out of contract professionals can only be signed after that period.
Bohs will face St Patrick’s Athletic in Richmond Park on Friday in their next game.
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