Wigan Athletic starlet sidelined for 'large part' of run-in

The Scotland Under-19 striker was conspicuous by his absence in the midweek defeat at fellow strugglers Swindon, with Latics failing to muster a single effort on their opponents goal.

And acting manager Leam Richardson delivered a gloomy prognosis ahead of this weekend's visit of another side in the relegation zone, AFC Wimbledon.

"Kyle's unfortunately suffered a back injury, he's with the medical team, and he will be out for a large part of the season," said Richardson.

"Obviously that's partly precautionary, because he's such a young lad who all of a sudden has been elevated into a situation that - as I've said before - is a lot more robust than people think.

"The energy levels and the kind of tools you need to play in League One two, sometimes three, times a week is really tough, really demanding.

"And he's unfortunately felt the labours and the effects of that.

"Kyle's a good lad, an intelligent lad, he'll look after himself, and hopefully he'll come back even stronger before too long.

"He's accepted the injury with the same attitude as he accepted the plaudits, and that will stand him in good stead for his recovery."

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