O’Neill sidelined until Christmas

New Coventry player-boss Gary McAllister has been rocked by the news that winger Keith O’Neill will be out of action until Christmas.

The Republic of Ireland international, who signed from Middlesbrough last August, suffered a double leg break towards the end of last season.

He will not figure in any pre-season training, and is not expected to return to action until December at the earliest.

Midfielder John Eustace told the club’s official website: ‘‘It does not look as if Keith will be available until Christmas time after suffering a very nasty injury in training.

‘‘He had a lot of bad luck with injuries and just when he was on his way back he suffered another setback.

‘‘All the lads wish him well and want to see him on the road to recovery so he is back midway through next season.’’