DAVID Foy's hopes of an early comeback following routine keyhole surgery have been dealt a blow after cruciate ligament damage was discovered.

The Worcester City midfielder underwent surgery on Monday to cure a small cartilage problem but a slight tear to the cruciate was spotted at the same time.

Surgeons have stapled the cruciate leaving Foy facing a six week rehabilitation programme rather than the expected two to three week delay.

The former Tamworth man picked up the injury playing against his old club in early September but initial tests missed the problem.

"It's a slight tear but the surgeon has put staples in it and it is the best sort of fix for that type of injury," said Foy.

"The thing was both the physio Archie Richards and the specialist did initial tests for it but it was inconclusive.

"But that is often the case because a rupture is much harder to spot than if it just snaps and this is a slight tear.

"The surgeon said that was why I couldn't fully lock the knee."

Richards will begin an intense rehabilitation programme with the player next week and Foy admits he could not be in better hands.

"Archie is the best physio I've come across in non league and I've no doubts about his ability -- he's first class," he said.

"The staples come out next Thursday and hopefully I'll be back in five to six weeks. Players heal at different speeds but initially I will build up the quads and get flexibility.

"There's quite a bit of swelling but I've doing some light exercises they've given me and it doesn't feel too bad."

The prospect of another lengthy spell on the sidelines and in the treatment room is a daunting one but Foy intends to remain positive.

"The thing with any serious injury is that is not just the physical pain it's the mental torture that you have to get over," he said.

"But as you get older and bit more experienced you learn to be positive about and I'm looking forward to getting back into action."

Meanwhile, the next generation of Worcester and Kidderminster stars will be on show in tonight's Midland Youth League Cup clash at St George's Lane (7.30).