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Deportivo La Coruna striker Joselu out 6-8 weeks with knee sprain

Deportivo La Coruna have announced that Spanish striker Joselu has a grade three lateral ligament knee sprain and is expected to be sidelined for six to eight weeks.

Joselu got hurt in his team's 1-0 home defeat to Athletic Bilbao on Sunday. It was his first appearance for Depor since joining the club on a season-long loan from Stoke City on transfer deadline day.

A late challenge from Athletic midfielder Raul Garcia forced the 26-year-old Joselu off the field after 24 minutes.

There were fears that Joselu, who left the Riazor stadium on crutches, may have an injury that was even more serious and that he might have to undergo surgery.

However, a statement from Deportivo said: "Deportivo striker Jose Luis Mato 'Joselu' suffered a grade 3 sprain to the internal lateral ligament of his right knee.

"His knee has been temporarily immobilised to begin physiotherapy work and follow a functional treatment once the scar heels."

Depor defender Juanfran says expectations should remain high for Joselu.

"In the few minutes that he played, he already proved what a great player he is. I know he is going to give us a lot this season," he said.

Joselu is upbeat despite the setback.

He tweeted: "Always ready to give it all!!!"

Joselu made 22 Premier League appearances for Stoke last season but started in just 12 games in all competitions for The Potters and was looking forward to making an impact at Depor.

The former Hannover 96 player was full of optimism when he arrived in Spain and said last week during his unveiling: "I want to play many games here and give all that I have to this club, who put their trust in me.

"I come back [to Spain] a changed player. I have much more experience now having played in two of the best leagues in the world [Premier League, Bundesliga]. With work, the rewards will come."