• Premier League

McLeish fears Dann will miss the rest of the season

ESPNsoccernet staff
January 16, 2011
Ben Foster was beaten by James Collins as Birmingham were frustrated by Aston Villa © Getty Images
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Birmingham boss Alex McLeish has confessed Scott Dann may not play again this season after a hamstring tear proved to be worse than first feared.

McLeish watched as his Birmingham side threw away a one-goal lead to draw 1-1 with Aston Villa on Sunday, with James Collins cancelling out Roger Johnson's opener.

However, it is Johnson's usual defensive partner Dann who is causing McLeish most concern, after scans revealed the centre-back will require surgery.

''It will be a long shot for Scott to be back before the end of this season," said McLeish. "It is not totally confirmed yet but we are going to miss him for a long time and it is a big blow.''

McLeish was left to rue his side's penalty curse as their derby clash ended level at St Andrew's. Blues are yet to win a spot-kick this season and they had a strong shout for one when Marc Albrighton caught the legs of David Murphy.

''I don't even claim for those now," said the Birmingham manager. "I've got to be dignified after a game and the referee has got a tough job. But their guy has caught the legs of our guy and I've certainly seen those given against us."

Asked whether Birmingham fans should now expect the imminent arrivals of Robbie Keane and Kenny Miller, McLeish had little to offer by way of update.

''With Keane, it is in the early stages and we will see what happens. With Miller, we are now waiting on an answer.''

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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