Aug 31 2007 by Mark Bloom, South Wales Echo

'THE worst start to a season in my career.' That was the reaction of Cardiff City skipper Darren Purse as he headed for knee surgery today. The former Birmingham City defender limped off the field during Tuesday's 1-0 Carling Cup win over Leyton Orient with a damaged knee.

Now having had the knee scanned on Wednesday and analysed by a specialist yesterday, the Bluebirds captain is heading for the operating table.

"I can't believe the bad luck I'm having at the moment and it must be the worst start to the season I have ever had," Purse told the Echo. "I have a tear on my cartilage and they will operate today. It could be three to four weeks out of the game, but I'm looking to be back in two or three."

Fit-again Glenn Loovens will partner Roger Johnson at the heart of City's defence at Norwich City tomorrow.

"If I had played the full 90 minutes in the Carling Cup on Tuesday I would have been fit for tomorrow's game, but I've now got to sit it out. I have just got to get on with it now. It could have been worse I suppose, it could have been six months. It's such a pity because I felt fit and ready to go again."

Purse could be ruled out for four games, but remains hopeful for better news. The Bluebirds now have a two-week break after tomorrow's clash at Carrow Road before facing Plymouth, Watford and Preston North End in the space of seven days.