Gray blow may force Lennon back into transfer market

Hibs head coach Neil Lennon has revealed he may have to make a move into the transfer market after skipper Davidgraysufferedwhat’sfeared to be a season-ending injury.

Gray fell clutching his Achilles seven minutes into their friendly match against Dutch side Willem II yesterday.

There was immediate concern for the 29-year-old, who was in obvious distress as he was helped to the dressing room, emerging afterwards wearing a protective boot.

Lennon, admitting he feared the worst, said the situation was “heartbreaking” for Gray, who had appeared to be finally over the niggling knee problem which had restricted him to just 12 appearances this season.

Lennon said: “I think it is a bad one. He felt something pop in his Achilles and that’s always a really bad sign. It could be devastating for us and him. It’s heartbreaking.

“I think it is pretty serious, a real blow. David will be in the boot to keep it stable for a couple of days. We don’t really know if it is a tear or a rupture (but) he may need surgery on it and, if that is the case, he’ll probably be out for the season.”

Gray’s injury leaves Lennon again short of cover at right-back and, asked if he might have to consider making a move for a new player, Lennon replied: “Possibly. Steven (Whittaker) is struggling with his pelvis. I’ve been going with Efe (Ambrose) for the last few games – he does a good job but it’s not ideal.”