Byrne blow for Cherries

Bournemouth teenager Nathan Byrne looks set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to ankle ligament damage.

The 19-year-old defender, on loan from Tottenham, was forced out of Saturday's 2-0 win at Exeter and Cherries physio Steve Hard is expecting the worst.

"Nathan Byrne is looking likely to be a long-term absentee with an injured left ankle," Hard told the club's official website.

"He's currently in a boot and on crutches and will have an x-ray and a scan later this week.

"At the moment he's definitely out for Saturday, but I suspect ligament damage and that will keep him out for longer."

Defender Adam Barrett and midfielder Harry Arter were also forced off with knocks against the Grecians and are doubts for the visit of Hartlepool at the weekend.

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