Workington Reds look like facing Ashton United on Saturday with a severely depleted squad.
Joe Bunney and Steven Rigg are certain non-starters after recent sendings off while Sam Smith suffered a severe facial injury against Worksop last night that will almost certainly keep him sidelined.
In addition Niall Brookwell, who collided with Smith in a last minute clearance, suffered a cut head and will be assessed for any concussion concerns ahead of the weekend.
Meanwhile recent acquisition Camron Gbadebo was an absentee last night as he has gone south for a trial and whether he is available for Saturday will depend on commitments there.
Jamie Devitt did not play last night because of a muscle strain but could be back in contention for Saturday’s trip to Ashton, while fellow mid-fielder Cieran Casson is not available because of work commitments.
It could leave Danny Grainger’s side desperately short in the centre-back position, especially as Dan Wordsworth announced his retirement last month.
Grainger is hoping to bring in a loan signing before Saturday and is also planning to intensify a search for further recruits because of the current situation.
Smith was particularly unlucky in his accidental collision with Brookwell as this was his first game back after an injury lay-off. He has a suspected broken nose, and also lost two teeth.
Meanwhile Reds have been officially told that Dav Symington was not sent off after Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Morpeth. It was in fact Steven Rigg who had been shown a second yellow card for comments directed at the referee.
It was originally thought Symington had been red-carded for kicking the ball and hitting the referee but video footage showed that was clearly an accident and not deliberate.
Rigg will serve a two-match ban, meaning he will also miss Tuesday’s big home game with Macclesfield, while Bunney – who was sent off before the end of the Morpeth game – will miss Ashton.
Reds had a special guest at last night’s 3-3 draw with Worksop with Ella Toone, the Man United and England star, who was there to watch boyfriend Joe Bunney.
