MOTHERWELL have been hit by an injury blow as attacker Craig Tanner suffered a freak knee injury in training on Wednesday that will keep him out for up to six months.

The 23-year-old has established himself as one of the Steelmen’s main creative outlets, and manager Stephen Robinson couldn’t hide his disappointment as he outlined what had happened to his player.

“In training yesterday, he went to strike a ball,” said Robinson. “There was nobody near him and his kneecap sort of disappeared and went around the other side of his leg.

“The physio was excellent with him and kept everyone calm when the rest of the players weren’t feeling too good. We’re not very good in those situations, football people. Our medical people dealt with it really well.

“He’s been to see the specialist and unfortunately for us and Craig he’s going to need an operation on his patella tendon.

“It’s a disappointment for us, but it’s now time for other people who have told me they haven’t had the opportunities to step up to the plate.

“Initially when it happened the boy was in agony. It was awful to see. He’s a tough little character and he’ll come back strong from it.

“He’s down and disappointed. We spoke to him last night, myself Keith and the medical staff.

“He’ll see the top specialist and we’ll make sure we get him back fitter and stronger. He will get all the medical care he needs.

“He’s in good hands to make sure he comes back stronger.”

Robinson is certain that the other players in his squad will rally around Tanner, and he thinks they will be determined to beat Celtic on Sunday in honour of their stricken teammate.

“If they need any kind of inspiration to do it for one of the boys who is very popular in the dressing room, then why not?” he said.

“I don’t think they need any extra motivation, but if they do, then it is certainly there this week.”