As feared, Derry defender Kevin Johnston has been ruled out of action for the remainder of the year.

The wing back, who had been making a major impact in his second senior intercounty season, sustained a knee injury when takled late on by Neil Gallagher during the Oak Leaf County's unlucky Ulster semi-final defeat to Donegal last weekend.

An MRI scan has confirmed that the Dungiven clubman sustained ligament damage, which will require surgery. Derry have revealed that he will be sidelined for at least three months but that the rehabilitation time could stretch to a full year.

Johnston made his debut during the historic league win in Killarney in February, 2014 and had been an ever-present in Brian McIver's team ever since.

Derry will meet Wexford in the second round of the SF Qualifiers on Saturday week.

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