BJ Banda to go for MRI scan on injured knee as Harps fear striker could be out long-term

BJ Banda is to have an MRI scan on the knee injury he picked up during Monday’s EA Sports Cup game against Sligo Rovers.

Banda started for only the second time this season as Harps were beaten 1-0 by Sligo at Finn Park.

But the 18-year-old striker had to be carried off on a stretcher after hurting his knee in the 28^th minute.

Banda was removed to hospital after sustaining the injury and Harps officials fear that the LyIT student could be out of action for a few months.

“We will send BJ to have a scan to see what the damage is,” Harps manager Ollie Horgan said.

“It looks like there is some ligament damage done and the doctor thinks there may be a little cartilage damage also, but we’ll see what the scan throws up.”

Banda had turned in a Man of the Match performance on Friday night as Harps defeated Derry City 2-0 at Maginn Park.

After the game in Buncrana, Banda spoke of how he had knuckled down to concentrate on football this season and last night’s injury will come as a hammer blow to the teenager.