Charlton striker Izale McLeod has been ruled out of action for up to nine months after damaging knee ligaments while on loan at Colchester.The 23-year-old was making his second substitute appearance for the Us when he was stretchered off in Tuesday's 4-1 defeat at Plymouth and has now returned to his parent club to receive treatment.

Addicks physio Steve Allen told the club's official website: "Izale sustained a spontaneous dislocation to his knee, which in turn led to the rupture of his anterior ligament.

"He has also suffered significant damage to both of his collateral ligaments along with a torn meniscus.

"He will be in a brace for three weeks before undergoing reconstructive surgery, followed by intensive rehab to get him back to fitness."

Charlton manager Alan Pardew has backed McLeod to "bounce back" from the injury.

He said: "Fate is playing us a tough hand this year, what with losing Toddy (Svetoslav Todorov) as well.

"Izale went out on loan just to get a few games but has ended up with a terrible injury, and there is nothing you can do about the situation now that it has happened.

"It has been a tough season for Izale, with not too many starts, and for this injury to come at this time is a big blow for the boy.

"But he is a strong character and I expect him to bounce back sooner rather than later."

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