Aston Villa's bid for survival in the Premier League was today dealt a blow with the news Ciaran Clark will miss the rest of the season with a knee injury.
The defender was sidelined for the FA Cup Semi-Final tie against Liverpool last weekend, but hopes of a return to compete in the final have now been dashed.
Clark has been an instrumental figure for the Midlands side but will now miss a crucial period as the Villains fight to avoid relegation and keep their top-flight status intact.
Villa manager, Tim Sherwood said: "It's a real blow for Ciaran but that's the nature of the game – when you're in there, there's a chance of getting injured.
"He's certainly one that doesn't hold back and puts his body on the line. Unfortunately, he's caught one there and we'll see him next season."
Clark is one to add to a list of a number of injuries with Nathan Baker, Alan Hutton and Gabriel Agbonlahor all out.
Aston Villa play Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.