Spurs face a tricky looking trip to face Shakhtar Donetsk in the UEFA Cup last 32 tonight.

Hull City have confirmed £5million record signing Jimmy Bullard will miss the rest of the season through injury.

The January signing from Fulham underwent surgery on a knee injury he picked up against West Ham. Initial scans showed Bullard had a tear in his cartilage and now further tests have discovered damage to his anterior cruciate ligament.

The news is a blow for Phil Brown’s side as they look to end their slump in form and secure their Premier League survival.

A statement on Hull’s official website read: “Jimmy Bullard underwent a procedure last night [Wednesday] in America to repair a torn cartilage.

“Whilst performing the arthroscopy, the surgeon noticed fresh damage to his anterior cruciate ligament.

“In the best interests of both the player and Hull City Football Club it was decided to undertake a reconstruction of the damaged ligament which means that Jimmy will be unavailable for the remainder of this season.

“The club wishes Jimmy a speedy recovery and look forward to his return in a Tigers shirt as soon as possible.”

Spurs face a tricky looking trip to face Shakhtar Donetsk in the UEFA Cup last 32 tonight.

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