Gardner faces operation and a lengthy lay-off

Anthony Gardner will be out for a lengthy period after Wednesday confirmed that the skipper has ruptured his achilles tendon and will need an operation.

The injury, suffered at Middlesbrough on Saturday, was confirmed by a specialist in London and Gardner is now due to have the operation on Monday.

Dave Jones said: “It’s a blow to the boy and the team because he was playing very well and has had a good start to the season. We wish him all the very best in his recovery and look forward to welcoming him back as soon as possible.”