Michael Blackwood

Blackwood ruled out of Oxford run-in

On-loan Michael Blackwood will miss Oxford United's run-in as he requires surgery on his calves.

Blackwood has featured in seven matches for the U's since joining from Kidderminster Harriers on loan and he will now be out of action until the summer as he looks to recovery from the upcoming operation.

U's manager Darren Patterson told the club's official website: "It's very unfortunate. Michael has hardly missed a game for Kidderminster but played two or three games in quick succession here and the injury flared up.

"It's something he suffered from four or five years ago and there had been no re-occurrence of that until now, no sign of it. It's a crying shame but explains why the explosiveness going forwards wasn't quite there.

"He needs to have an operation on both calves. You could bounce a 50p off them at half time in matches they were that tight. It's a simple procedure and Kidderminster have been very good about it.

"We are disappointed for Michael and wish him every success and a quick recovery."