Jeremy Staunton out until the end of 2010
Leicester Tigers fly half Jeremy Staunton could be out of action until the end of 2010 due to a torn Achilles.
Staunton has had a very big impact within the Leicester team so far this season. The 30-year-old had scans earlier in the week that confirmed the injury was a partial tear to the Achilles tendon.
"The initial scan showed a bit of swelling but there is a small tear in the Achilles.
He could have played with it but it's too risky and will have to be off his feet and rested for up to 12 weeks," said Leicester boss Richard Cockerill.
This is negative news for the club because of the knee injury that Toby Flood suffered earlier in the season. The club has to resist the temptation to rush back either
player.
Bad news
Staunton was praised for his professionalism and the way he had an immediate impact when he first came into the team because of Flood's injury. He has been able to maintain
his consistency, which has helped Leicester up to fifth in the Premiership.
This will be a big blow to Staunton personally because he seems like a player that prides himself on having great levels of fitness. This compensates for the fact he's
slightly older and slower.
Leicester now has to ask a player to play out of position to cover for the injuries to both main fly half players. This could be a player off of the wing like Lee Robinson.
The club has to resist the temptation to rush back Flood and later Staunton. There is no point doing this because it could only make the injuries of both worse. This would
keep the players out of action for far longer.
Betting advice
Flood is due back from injury in mid-October. Don't change any betting patterns because the club is still a good bet to finish in the top four. Be a little wary of backing
the replacement fly half because it will not be a natural position for whoever comes in and takes over.
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