Stuart Holden in World Cup race after breaking leg

BOLTON Wanderers midfielder Stuart Holden faces at least the next six weeks on the sidelines after fracturing his right fibula.

The Aberdeen-born American, who joined Bolton in January on a short-term deal until the end of the season, sustained the injury during United States' 2-1 friendly defeat to the Netherlands on Wednesday.

Holden, who moved to the US with his family at the age of eight, started Bolton's last two matches, impressing manager Owen Coyle, who confirmed the 22-year-old's contract has been extended to the end of next season.

"It's disappointing for Stuart because he has come into the team and done ever so well," said Coyle. "What we do know is he will come back bigger and stronger, but it is sad for him to miss out at this moment in time. He's come in with a real hunger and desire to do well for our club, and in the two games he's played, we've seen his quality."

Coyle is hopeful the injury will not damage Holden's prospects of playing in the World Cup, with the United States' opening group game against England on 12 June.

"Only time will tell," added Coyle. "We're erring on the side of six weeks, and if that is the case then he will be capable of playing the last part of the season for us and putting himself in the frame for the World Cup."

With regard to Holden's extended deal, Coyle feels he has already proven himself in the short space of time he has been with Bolton. The Scot added: "We've already spoken with him and his representative to assure him he will be here for longer because of the belief I have in him, and the quality he has shown since he came to the club. When we signed him, within the contract there was the option there to extend it further, which we will do."

Holden picked up the injury in a tackle with Manchester City midfielder Nigel de Jong, who was booked for the challenge but insisted there was no malice intended. "Such offences are part of football," he said. "I went for the ball and got the opponent at the end. I had no evil intent."

Rangers midfielder DaMarcus Beasley replaced Holden in the 34th minute and his long free-kick was headed in by captain Carlos Bocanegra for the American goal in the 88th minute.

"It feels good to be back," Beasley said after his first match with the national team since his blunder led to a Brazilian goal in the Confederations Cup last June. He believes, however, that he has more to do to secure a World Cup place. "I need more games, and then I will try make things difficult for the coach," he added.