WIGAN'S players have been rallying round Per Frandsen after learning that he will miss the rest of the season.

Frandsen, who joined the Latics from Wanderers during the summer, tore both cruciate and medial knee ligaments during last Saturday's 4-0 win over Sheffield United.

And his team-mates have been to see him in hospital, where he had an exploratory operation on Wednesday to assess the extent of the damage.

Manager Paul Jewell said: "It's heartbreaking for the lad, and we're all devastated for him because he has been a vital part of our fine start to the season.

"He's brought something to the side we haven't had previously, and we are going to miss him."

Lee McCulloch and Matt Jackson have both recovered from knocks in time to play at Derby in the Championship on Saturday.

The Rams are facing an injury and suspension crisis, with left-back Jamie Vincent and midfielder Nathan Doyle banned. Central defender Michael Johnson has a calf strain, while striker Marcus Tudgay (shoulder), full-back Richard Jackson (ankle) and Danish midfielder Morten Bisgaard (hip) are also sidelined.

Derby will hold a minute's silence before Saturday's match in memory of their former manager Brian Clough.