Wigan have confirmed defender Eric Edman has ruptured his cruciate ligament and is facing a six-month spell on the sidelines.

The Sweden defender sustained the injury to his left knee when attempting to block a shot in the first half of last weekend's defeat to Blackburn.

Edman has been given permission to travel to London where he meet up with doctors from the Swedish national side, who are in the capital for Wednesday's friendly against Brazil.

Edman will then travel back to his homeland for surgery on his damaged knee, and he is likely to stay there for the initial post-operation period.

Latics manager Steve Bruce told the club's official website: "It's a real shame because Eric has looked so natural, and we will certainly miss him.

"He's also a lovely lad and a terrific professional, but he'll get over this and be back for us, I'm sure. Everyone at the club wishes him the best."

Edman has been in fine form since his January move from French side Rennes and his absence will be keenly felt at the JJB Stadium as Wigan face a battle until the end of the season to preserve their Premier League status.

Kevin Kilbane is likely deputise at left-back, although Honduran Maynor Figueroa gives Bruce another option.

Mike Hytner / Eurosport