Town's limited defensive resources have been dealt a massive blow with centre-half Jason De Vos being ruled out for at least a month. The Canadian broke several ribs during Saturday's 1-0 victory over Cardiff City and is likely to be out for up to six weeks.

The Blues were short on central defensive options even prior to De Vos's injury, with Drissa Diallo released at the end of last season, Gerard Nash recovering from a knee operation and Aidan Collins injuring a leg in the recent reserve team friendly with Canvey Island.

Northern Irish youngster Chris Casement, 18, impressed in pre-season but is not considered ready for first team football and boss Joe Royle is looking to bring in a loanee from a Premiership club before Tuesday's first away game of the season at QPR.

De Vos, who played through a number of injuries last season including a suspected hairline leg fracture, was one of Town's best performers in Saturday's victory over the Bluebirds and will be sorely missed as Town's new look team gel in the opening weeks of the season.

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