Oldham Athletic forward Deane Smalley is facing a fresh three-month injury layoff ahead of the up-coming visit of Hartlepool United tonight.
Formerly an Apprentice, Smalley, now 20, has yet to feature this season due to a back problem and could now be out for a further three months after being told he may need surgery to rectify a damaged disc.
The news is yet another blow to Latics boss Dave Penney, who is already battling a long injury list which includes Rob Purdie and Joe Jacobson.
Midfielder Purdie is recovering from a stomach injury and defender Jacobson is currently troubled by a hernia.
