Southampton's Gavin Bazunu faces long recovery after Achilles injury
Gavin Bazunu in action for Ireland Credit: Conor Ryan (ETPhotos)
Southampton's manager, Russell Martin, has confirmed that goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu is facing a long spell out of action due to a ruptured Achilles tendon.
The injury occurred during the warm-up before Tuesday's match against Preston at St Mary's.
"Gavin had an operation yesterday," Martin revealed. "He's ruptured his Achilles tendon so it was as bad as we feared. He will be out for around nine to ten months."
The Republic of Ireland international, aged 22, was replaced in the starting lineup just before the game.
Following his surgery, Martin shared insights into Bazunu's current state, noting, "I spoke to him before the operation and he wasn’t in a good place but last night he was way more positive. We will rally behind him. We’re really devastated for Gav. But he’ll get through it and be stronger for it. We look forward to seeing him on Monday."
Martin also acknowledged the challenges ahead for Bazunu, saying, "Gavin has had a huge setback, there will be some dark and lonely moments over the next 10 months. We will support him and get around him."
