Sunderland have confirmed midfielder Paddy McNair will be out of action for a 'lengthy spell' after rupturing his cruciate ligament Sunderland have confirmed midfielder Paddy McNair will be out of action for a 'lengthy spell' after rupturing his cruciate ligament

Sunderland midfielder Paddy McNair will miss the rest of the season after rupturing his cruciate ligament in the 3-0 win against Hull City on Saturday.

It is understood he suffered the injury in the 42nd minute when the Northern Ireland international closed down Curtis Davies on the edge of his own area.

Despite that, McNair played on until the 88th minute when he was substituted after taking another knock and he will now require an operation.

The 21-year old joined Sunderland from Manchester United in the summer, preferring a permanent move to a Premier League side rather than being sent out on loan by Jose Mourinho.

"We won't see him again this season and all we can hope is getting him right for the start of next season," manager David Moyes told the club's website.

"I think he'd just started to find his way in the Premier League - even though he had experience at Manchester United - and the games he was having were bringing him on and giving him confidence.

"He probably won't have his operation for over a week because he's got a cut on his knee and they can't operate while there is an open wound, so we have to wait until that heals so it might be a week or two."

McNair was a summer signing from Manchester United

McNair had made 12 appearances in all competitions this season under Moyes, scoring twice in the 2-1 win over QPR in the EFL Cup in September.

He will miss Northern Ireland's crucial World Cup Qualifier against Norway in March and could also be doubtful for their trip to Azerbaijan in June, depending on the speed of recovery, with six to eight months a normal absence for this injury.

Sunderland 3-0 Hull Sunderland 3-0 Hull

As the news of the knee injury emerged, messages of support for McNair were posted on Twitter from the official accounts of both Northern Ireland and United.

The message from his national team said: "Paddy McNair has suffered a cruciate ligament injury & is expected to miss the rest of the season. Get well soon Paddy!"

United's message said: "Everyone at #MUFC wishes you a speedy recovery, Paddy!"

Upgrade to Sky Sports now and get 12 months half price. Hurry, offer ends December 4!