The 30-year-old damaged his right knee in a last-ditch tackle on Victor Anichebe during the first half of the 2-0 victory and was carried off on a stretcher. Coyle admitted the news could easily have been worse but Knight has formed an impressive partnership with Gary Cahill and his loss is a setback for the Trotters.
"Zat suffered ligament damage. It's not as severe as we first thought but certainly bad enough to keep him out for a period of time. There's severe swelling in the area so I think we'll know better in seven to 10 days when that goes down," Coyle said.
"But I think it's fair to say he'll be four to six weeks, which is a terrible loss, first and foremost for Zat, because he's played every game for me since I came to the football club over a year ago.
"He's been outstanding as a player and as a man, and the sooner we get him back the better. It is a blow, there's no doubt about it, and we wish him a speedy recovery."
Knight's injury opens the door for January signing David Wheater, who should now be given an extended run in the side, starting with Tuesday night's FA Cup fourth-round replay at Wigan.
Source: PA
Source: PA