West Ham Academy defender Michael Forbes has been potentially ruled out for the rest of the season, its been reported by ExWHUEmployee.

Forbes had agreed a loan move to Colchester United for the remainder of this season, however its understood the defender has ruptured his hamstring and is therefore expected to be unavailable for a number of months as he recovers.

It is a huge blow for the player, who was hoping to gain senior first team experience with the Essex club, although following the injury, the loan move of course has been cancelled.

Reporting on The West Ham Way Patreon, our club insider Ex has advised that Forbes will now undertake his rehabilitation back in east London.

“We can confirm the sad news that Northern Irish academy defender Michael Forbes has ripped his hamstring and is now out for the season it is thought,” stated Ex.

“The centre-back was due to join Essex side Colchester United on loan for the remainder of the season. This move will now be cancelled (unless he recovers sooner than expected) unfortunately and he will continue his rehabilitation with West Ham.”