LUCKLESS Charlton defender Cory Gibbs looks set to miss the rest of the season after breaking three metatarsals in his left foot 23 minutes into his comeback for the reserves against Brighton on Monday.

The 27-year-old United States international has yet to make a senior appearance for the club after signing a pre-contract with Charlton in 2006.

A knee injury forced him out of the World Cup and apart from playing 45 minutes for the reserves against Reading last season has remained out of contention through persistent injury problems.

“This guy has has been very unlucky in his career at Charlton and I feel for him,” said manager Alan Pardew.

“He’s a really top guy who is so disheartened after suffering this latest injury.

“It was an impact injury, not one that just happened. I know the rest of the squad will rally round him because football clubs are very supportive like that.”

Though Gibbs’ contract with Charlton has another 18 months to run a big question mark hangs over his future with the club.