Ferguson's injury could end career

Duncan Ferguson is fighting to save his career at the age of 30.

The Everton striker, who has battled against a succession of injuries, is in danger of being beaten by his latest condition.

Ferguson, hampered by a back problem since the end of last season, has undergone treatment but has been told that one further injection could represent his last chance of a cure.

Everton manager David Moyes, speaking ahead of tonight's trip to Southampton, hinted that time was running out for Ferguson, saying: 'His condition is a concern, because, if he had another injection, that would be as far as we could go. Surgery does not seem to be an option.

'We considered giving him another injection this week, but he said No. He can train some days but not others, and it has dragged on longer than we thought it would. It is very frustrating.'

Southampton manager Gordon Strachan must decide whether to risk key defender Claus Lundekvam as his side bid for their first win of the season.

Lundekvam has not played since damaging his hamstring in the 3-0 defeat at Liverpool 18 days ago, but he came through a full training session at the start of the week.