A specialist has given his verdict on the full extent of Raith Rovers’ Lewis Vaughan’s knee problem with manager Ray McKinnon admitting the “worst possible scenario” has been confirmed.
The 19-year-old suffered the injury playing against Albion Rovers in the League Cup at the start of this month.
The medical team at Stark’s Park had waited for the swelling around the joint to subside before sending him to see a specialist.
McKinnon said last night: “It has been confirmed that Lewis has ruptured his cruciate which was the worst possible scenario.
“He is now looking at six to nine months on the sidelines and I am absolutely gutted for him.
“It is also a big blow to the team and I will have to increase my efforts to strengthen in the forward areas.
“I am having a look at a trialist this week and I will also pursue possible loan deals.
“However, we had Mitch Megginson back and scoring against Livingston at the weekend which was pleasing.”
That Championship opener which Raith won 3-0, saw defender Lewis Toshney play the full 90 minutes just two weeks after damaging ankle ligaments against Cowdenbeath.
The manager revealed the fact he lasted the whole game was even more amazing considering he damaged the joint again shortly after kick-off.
McKinnon said: “Lewis rolled his ankle after just 30 seconds and we feared the worst but he managed to see out the game.
“He said he was in agony yesterday but he was walking about today and insists he will be all right for Saturday which is just incredible.”
The Livi match also marked the return to Stark’s Park of former club captain Iain Davidson.
“Davo” has rejoined Rovers following his spell at Dundee with McKinnon signing the 31-year-old midfielder after having him in on trial last week.
The manager added: “Iain was exactly what I was looking for in terms of experience in that area.
“Hopefully, he will be fully up to speed quickly.”