Scan reveals Richie may be out for the season

By rob
July 22 2002

Richie Hanlon has had a scan on the knee which he injured at Stamford in last wednesdays pre-season friendly, and early signs are he could be out for up to 12 months.

It is reported that he has suffered a cruciate ligament injury, and damaged the medial ligament and cartilage. it looks a possiblity that surgery may be required after he sees a specialist, later this week.

It is also likely that Michael McElhatton may miss the start of the season after the knee problem, that kept him out for most of last season, has reappeared, and will have to see a specialist

This leaves the diamonds short of experience in midfield, with only Stuart Wardley, and Paul Hall. Andy Burgess has the experience from last season, but misses the first league game through suspension, after being sent off at Halifax in April.

Gary setchell, and Gary Mills never held a regular place in the starting line-up last season, and the other midfielders David bell, and Daniel talbot have only just been added to the squad after coming through the youth team.