AMSTERDAM – Contrary to widespread reports in the British press, Nottingham Forest say they have yet to receive the prognosis for injured fullback Eric Lichaj, who left their March 1 loss to Wigan early due to a nagging pelvic injury.
Some reports suggested that the US international required surgery and would sit on the shelf for at least a month. But the club told MLSsoccer.com late Wednesday afternoon that it is still waiting on the exam results needed to make any such determinations.
Lichaj had already missed six other Championship matches this year for the Reds, who stand fifth despite a five-game win drought. Prior to Tuesday's draw with Middlesbrough, Forest manager Billy Davies told reporters that the setback may have made their promotion chase more difficult.
"It's another terrible blow for us," said the coach. "We had a good week's training from him prior to the Wigan match and he and the medical people gave us the green light to include him. Unfortunately he felt it getting worse and worse as the game progressed, and we had to make the change."
Working his first season for Nottingham Forest after a move from Aston Villa last summer, Lichaj has started 23 of his 26 games across all competitions.
