Fresh injury setback for Wigan Athletic star

The Wales international has been restricted to only one appearance in the last four months - the 1-0 win at Sunderland on December 5 - because of a knee problem that required surgery.

But after fighting his way back to fitness, and being on the verge of a return to the first-team set-up, Evans has seen his hopes of a comeback derailed once again.

"Lee's had a little setback, which is disappointing," revealed Latics interim boss Leam Richardson.

"He came back after the knee injury and just felt his calf in a couple of training sessions.

"I would suggest it'll be another two or three weeks, and it's just the way it's going for us at the moment.

"It's one step forward and two back, and it's just a colossal effort to get everyone together and just drag everyone over the hill.

"I've got that thankless task, so we'll see how we get on."

Evans is one of three outfield players - along with Gavin Massey and Tom Pearce - remaining from last season's Championship squad.

Massey's substitute appearance against Lincoln on Saturday was his first in three months because of a calf problem, while Pearce has already been written off for the season because of an ankle injury.

And boss Richardson had earmarked Wales international Evans for a major role - on and off the pitch - in the survival bid.

"Lee's been part of a group that's been emotionally challenged, seeing so many of last year's group having to leave," added Richardson.

"Mentally he's been in different places, and then obviously physically with his operation he's been all over the place.

"He's as disappointed as anybody, because he wants to be out there and helping the group.

"He's certainly got an affiliation with the club, and he wants to see it remain in the division this year."

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