Derby County's Jason Knight is facing up to three months out injured following a tackle by boss Wayne Rooney in training.

As has been well-documented, the Rams have endured a disastrous summer so far and they are heading into the new season with a ridiculously small squad, although new additions are expected before the opener.

Nevertheless, news that an ankle injury would keep Knight out for up to 12 weeks was not what Derby needed in their position.

And, the Telegraph have revealed that the setback was actually caused by Rooney, with the ex-Manchester United man joining in with training to boost the numbers and his challenge left Knight in pain.

Whilst there is an optimism that Knight could be back within two months, he is certainly going to miss the game against Huddersfield on August 7 and the four other league games that come in the opening month.

The Ireland international has become an influential player for the East Midlands outfit since breaking into the first-team, with Knight featuring in 43 games last season.

The verdict

This just about sums up how it's going for Derby and Rooney right now. Even though the boss might be coming in for stick for what's happened, he will be needed to make the numbers up in training and these things happen.

So, it's a real shame for Knight and the Rams who would've needed the midfielder in the XI for the opener at Pride Park.

These things happen though, and Knight will be focusing on his recovery and Rooney will be desperate to strengthen his squad once the embargo is lifted.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.