Pune, Sep 26 (IANS): FC Pune City on Monday announced that marquee footballer Eidur Gudjohnsen of Iceland and midfielder Andre Bikey will not be able to take part in the Indian Super League (ISL) due to ankle and thigh injuries, respectively.

While Gudjohnsen has an ankle injury in his left leg, Bikey injured a tendon of his right thigh that effectively ends their campaign with the club for the season.

FC Pune City CEO Gaurav Modwel said this was a big loss for the club. "Eidur is the leader of the team and both him and Andre are excellent players and amazing human beings. It's a rude shock to me to learn about their injuries and their presence will be missed by everyone in the club. 

"Eidur is very disappointed himself. We wish both players a speedy recovery and hope to see them on the pitch soon. I am sure our team and coaches will fight this challenge with renewed vigour and confidence."

Former Barcelona and Chelsea striker Gudjohnsen, 38, said: "What was an exciting start to my new journey in India with FC Pune City, has come to an abrupt end, unfortunately. Just a few days back, on my left ankle, what I thought was a niggle, turned out to be more than that."

Head coach Antonio Habas said: "The injuries to Eidur and Andre both are unfortunate developments for us. Eidur had a very good pre-season training stint with us in Spain, where he showed us his formidable skills. 

"But then injuries are a part of every sport and football is a team game so we have to move on. Eidur leaves behind a lot of valuable inputs that came with his experience and the boys have learnt a lot from his presence during the pre-season training in Spain. We wish both all the best for their future."