HARTLEPOOL United’s injury troubles took another turn for the worse yesterday, as Willie Boland was ruled out for the forseeable future.

The central midfielder started the season in good form, but has not played since damaging knee ligaments in the 1-0 loss to Stockport on August 23.

He was expected to be out for up to two months, but has suffered a major setback and has undergone knee surgery. It remains to be seen if he will return this campaign.

The cartilage in Boland’s knee has been repaired, while the joint has also been cleaned up during surgery yesterday.

Pools hoped rest would clear up the problems, but they were left with no option after his rehabilitation stuttered.

Pools lost James Brown for the season in last week’s draw with Bristol Rovers.

He suffered cruciate knee ligament damage and will be out for the season.

Reconstructive surgery will follow later this month.

And while Michael Mackay stepped up with two goals in Saturday’s FA Cup win at Fleetwood, the striker admitted he feels for Brown.

“It was unlucky for Browny – and I’m going to miss him, as he is one of my poker mates on the bus when we travel to away games!’’ he said.

“Everyone is gutted for him. He is going to be even more gutted because it is the second time it has happened to time in the last three years.

“I think he will have a little rest and he might want to come along to a couple of the games to keep involved.

“I’ve spoken to him and he is hobbling about and hopefully he can get back as quick as possible.’’ Midfielder Ritchie Jones sat out on Saturday, he was suffering from a tight hamstring and wasn’t risked, but is expected to be back in contention for Saturday’s League One game with Yeovil.