Everton's Dan Gosling has been ruled out for up to nine months after picking up a serious knee injury on Saturday. The midfielder ruptured his cruciate knee ligament after a clash with the the Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann in the closing minutes of the 0-0 draw.

"Our worst fears have been confirmed," said the club's physio Mick Rathbone. "Dan has ruptured his cruciate ligament and will be unfortunately be out for up to nine months."

The England Under-21 international has made 17 appearances for Everton this season, scoring three times, and was on against Wolves as an 83rd minute substitute.

"I'm really disappointed for Dan," said David Moyes. "He's been making great progress here at Everton and we look forward to having him back as soon as possible."