AYO’S AGONY
Martindalefearskeydefendermaybeoutlongtermas kneeligamentinjurymeanshewillmissrestofseason
Livingston defender Ayo Obileye is set to miss the rest of the season.
The defender suffered damaged ligaments in a challenge with Hibs midfielder CJ Egan-Riley at the weekend which forced him off the pitch just 20 minutes after coming on as a substitute.
While the club are still awaiting scans to determine the severity of the injury, being fit for the start of next season is a doubt.
Livi boss David Martindale confessed the timescale is uncertain at this point but believes being out until June is a ‘best case scenario’.
He said: “Ayo has a bad one but we have to wait on the scan results. He could be looking at a few months out depending on what happens. He’s in a lot of discomfort right now but we will see what happens.
“Ayo and CJ Egan-Riley have gone for the ball and it is a robust challenge but it is not a red card. Ayo lifted his foot and with the contact they both make with the ball his knee opens up.
“I think it’s likely his season is over but we’re crossing our fingers that that’s all it is and he’s not out longer term.”
The Courier understands the centreback’s injury won’t impact the club’s decision to activate the one-year option they have on his contract even if he misses a chunk of next season, citing a ‘duty of care’ towards the 28-year-old.
Morgan Boyes, Cristian Montano and Joel Nouble have had their options picked up this week.
On the contract extensions, Martindale said: “I’m delighted we have extended Morgan’s contract. He has got his head down and applied himself very well which has seen him progress and develop in the manner I knew he could.
“Finding good, young central defenders who have a desire to defend and can look after the ball is becoming harder by the year and I feel that’s what we have in Morgan.”
He added: “I was very keen to get the option year exercised as early as possible with Cristian as he has been one of our strongest performers.
“I’m very happy with what he brings to the team both on and off the park. He has been a fantastic addition to Livingston Football Club and I’m delighted we have got his services for next season.
“Joel is a player we should all enjoy as much as we can as we are lucky to have him. He will play a huge part in the games going forward and hopefully help the club make a strong finish to the season.”