Dempsey will play again this season

Clint Dempsey has been ruled out Fulham's tough Europa League last-32 tie against holders Shakhtar Donetsk, but he will feature again this term.

Dempsey suffered a knee injury in the 2-0 away defeat to Blackburn and was expected to be out for the rest of the season. It was originally thought he had torn his posterior cruciate ligament, meaning he would miss all of Fulham's remaining games as well as the World Cup.

However new scans have shown that the player only suffered minor damage and does not require surgery. This means the United States international should be back before the end of the season and could play a major part in Fulham's push to qualify for Europe for the second season in a row.

When he does return, he should give Fulham a boost on the pitch and this will no doubt be reflected in the side's football betting odds.

A club statement about the midfielder said: "Early indications are good in that no operation is required. At this stage it is thought that the injury will not prevent him playing prior to the end of the season."

The club's statement added: "While obviously disappointed, Clint is focused on his rehabilitation and will work hard, in line with medical advice, to return at the soonest opportunity."

Dempsey has been a key member of the Fulham squad this season, making 29 appearances and scoring seven goals. He has also been capped 44 times for the USA.

The USA will play England on June 12th in Rustenburg in the opening game of Group C at this summer's World Cup and American coach Bob Bradley was upbeat following the injury news.

He told the BBC: "The news about Clint's injury is positive, especially given the fact that he will not require surgery," said US coach Bob Bradley.

"We are confident that Clint will be ready to be an important part of our team during the World Cup."

Fulham are already without striker Bobby Zamora and defender John Pantsil for the Europa League tie meaning Roy Hodgson's options will be further limited for the clash against the four-time Ukrainian champions.

This is likely to have a negative impact on the side's Europa League betting odds.