Knee injury rules Holden of U.S. out for 6 months

American midfielder Stuart Holden will miss June's CONCACAF Gold Cup because of a knee injury that will require surgery and sideline him six months.

Holden hurt his left knee in Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Manchester United in the Premier League. United defender Jonny Evans drew a red card for the tackle.

Holden wrote on his Twitter account that he was having surgery Monday in London.

''Just had a sincere phone call from Jonny Evans wishing me the best in my recovery,'' he wrote. ''Def wasn't intentional, just unfortunate part of the game.''

Last year, Holden's right leg was broken by a challenge from the Netherlands' Nigel de Jong during an exhibition game March 3. He returned May 9 in Bolton's final game of the season and played for the U.S. at the World Cup.

''I can promise you all I will come back stronger and better than before,'' Holden wrote. ''Have had bad luck in the past and will continue to beat it.''

Holden became a regular starter under Bolton manager Owen Coyle.

''He has such desire, strength of character and a winning mentality, and he will draw on all those attributes in his rehabilitation,'' Coyle said.