Ryan Alebiosu: Blackburn defender facing months out after knee surgery confirmed

Blackburn Rovers manager Tony Mowbray says Nigeria defender Ryan Alebiosu could be sidelined for “three or four months, maybe a touch longer” after suffering a serious knee injury.

The 24-year-old right-back was injured during Blackburn’s Championship match against Stoke City at Ewood Park on Tuesday, November 3. He was forced to leave the field in the 41st minute.

A scan carried out on Wednesday confirmed that Alebiosu will require surgery, with Mowbray providing an update after Blackburn’s 2-1 victory over West Ham United on Saturday.

“He had a scan on Wednesday. It’s not good news for him obviously,” Mowbray said, as quoted by the Lancashire Telegraph.

The Blackburn manager confirmed that an operation is expected and that the defender faces a lengthy recovery before he can return to competitive football.

“He looks like he’s going to have an operation which is three or four months, maybe a touch longer. We’re all disappointed.”

Alebiosu has been an important option for Blackburn on the right side of their defence, and Mowbray said the injury was particularly disappointing because of the qualities the player brings to the team.

“Ryan’s a real positive for the team. The attacking threat from right back with the legs and the athleticism he brings.”

The expected surgery means Alebiosu now faces several months of rehabilitation, leaving Blackburn without a player whose attacking ability and physical attributes have made him a valuable part of the squad.