D-day for Quinn as he fears the worst

VETERAN Sunderland striker Niall Quinn is facing D-day as his long-running back injury threatens to end his distinguished playing career.

The 36-year-old Republic of Ireland international will see a specialist today fearing the worst after having to pull out of last night's 1-1 Premiership draw with Bolton.

''I've had problems for more than 18 months and I'll see the surgeon, but I'm not hopeful,'' he said.