Lee Bowyer has confirmed that Jonathan Leko will miss the rest of the season after suffering an ACL injury in last weekend’s draw at Queens Park Rangers.
The 20-year old was forced off in the 11th minute of the 2-2 draw at the Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium and, speaking to the assembled press following the 3-2 victory over Bristol City on Boxing Day, Addicks boss Bowyer revealed the extent of the injury.
“Jonathan Leko is out for the rest of the season,” he revealed.
“It came from nothing – he jumped, landed, jolted his knee a bit and has done his ACL. He’ll be out for the rest of the season, going into next season as well.
“I feel sorry for the lad, because he was doing so well for us. He’ll go back, have an operation and we’ll have to look for someone to replace him.”
Leko had been on a season-long loan from West Bromwich Albion, but he will now return to the Hawthorns for treatment, with his loan officially coming to a premature end in January.
The forward made 21 appearances in total, scoring five goals. The club would like to wish Leko the very best of luck with his rehabilitation and thank him for his efforts since arriving in August.