Bolton defender Gary Cahill could miss the rest of the season after suffering a blood clot in his arm.

Bolton defender Gary Cahill could miss the rest of the season after suffering a blood clot in his arm.

It is a devastating blow for Cahill, who was hoping to claim a place in England's World Cup squad.

The 24-year-old was taken ill on Friday and sat out the 0-0 draw against Fulham on Saturday.

Manager Owen Coyle said: "Gary suffered a pain in his arm and it became severely swollen on the day of the game.

"There was no way he could play so we took him straight off to hospital. It turns out he had a blood clot in his arm, so he is going to be out for a number of months."

Coyle has promised that the level of care afforded to Cahill will be second to none.

"I don't think it is a sport-related injury, I think it is just one of those things that can happen to anyone at any given time, " said the Bolton boss.

"Gary will be disappointed as he has so much to play for. He is one of the best players at the club and he had a big role to play, no doubt about that.

"He also had a chance of going to the World Cup - but that chance will come again. He is a terrific lad and someone we love working with. He has a great mindset.

"Gary will get the best care available to him. As much as we love football, we will focus on making sure Gary recovers well."