South African defender Lucas Radebe’s career could be over after he suffered a suspected rupture of the Achilles’ tendon during Leeds United’s goalless draw at Wolves on Saturday.
The 35-year-old was carried off on a stretcher after extended treatment on the pitch 18 minutes into the game at Molineux.
Elland Road manager Kevin Blackwell gave a frank assessment of the injury.
”Lucas went down after 11 minutes and I have to tell you the prognosis is not good,” Blackwell said.
”The initial indication is that Lucas has suffered a rupture of the Achilles’ tendon and if that’s true it means he’s probably played his last game for Leeds United because he only had this year left on his contract.
”He’s gone to hospital for more tests but it doesn’t look good and it’s such a shame because this is his testimonial year.
”Lucas was moving forward to play the ball and he felt what he thought was a kick and that’s usually the tell-tale sign of the tendon snapping.
”That’s why we fear the worst.”
Despite Radebe’s enforced withdrawal, Leeds went on to secure a share of the spoils after Wolves had dominated the Championship game.
The hosts would have won but for goalkeeper Neil Sullivan denying Kenny Miller from the penalty spot with five minutes left.
Michael Duberry was sent off for the foul on Miller which led to the penalty. – Sapa-AFP