WALES boss Chris Coleman has expressed his disappointment after losing Burnley striker Sam Vokes to a long-term knee injury.

Vokes ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament on Saturday, having recently established himself in the Wales line-up.

He is now expected to miss the start of Wales’ Euro 2016 qualifying campaign.

“It’s a shame that we’ve lost Sam at an important moment,” Coleman said.

“It’s a huge disappointment for Sam and we’re going to be right with him, right by his side to try and get him back to one piece. For us also it looks like we’re going to miss him at the start, unfortunately, of what is going to be a very intense campaign.

“He’s terrific to work with and this year he’s been getting his just rewards.”