Zach Mitchell's St Johnstone loan ends early due to knee injury

St Johnstone defender Zach Mitchell has returned to parent club Charlton after a serious knee injury suffered against Falkirk cut short his season-long loan spell.

Zach Mitchell's season-long loan at St Johnstone has been ended early after the defender suffered a serious knee injury. The 21-year-old sustained the injury during the recent 1-1 draw with Falkirk at McDiarmid Park.

Mitchell has already undergone surgery and has now returned to his parent club, Charlton Athletic, to begin his treatment and rehabilitation. St Johnstone manager Steven MacLean provided the latest update on the player's condition this week.

The centre-back made nine appearances during his second loan spell with the Saints. His season is now over, leaving a gap in the defensive options for a side sitting sixth in the Premiership with eight points from seven games.

Both the club and Mitchell issued statements expressing mutual gratitude. "I’m gutted not to be able to continue the season after what I feel has been a positive start with so much potential," said Mitchell. St Johnstone said: "Everyone at St Johnstone Football Club thanks Zach for his contribution and wishes him all the very best with his recovery."

The player added that he loved playing for the club and was proud to have been part of it again, thanking the fans for their incredible support. He said he will be supporting the team for the rest of the campaign. Steven MacLean's men next face Aberdeen away on 11 October, and fans can check the full fixtures schedule and the latest standings.