Striker Jon Dadi Bodvarsson is to miss the rest of the season after being told he requires surgery to overcome an ankle injury.
Bodvarsson was substituted during Wanderers’ 3-0 win over Portsmouth last weekend after landing awkwardly following an aerial challenge.
The Iceland international – who has scored eight times this season and recently returned from a broken nose – will now undergo an operation to repair the damage which has cruelly curtailed his first full season with the Whites.
“Sometimes the innocuous-looking injuries seem to be the worst and our worst fears have been realised,” confirmed manager Ian Evatt.
“Jon will miss the remainder of the season. He needs surgery on some ankle ligaments he damaged.
“He was just getting back to his best form, as well. We’ve had a disrupted time with him this year and it’s unfortunate.
“But we’ll give him all the support he needs, look after his family and wish him a speedy recovery.
“He’s a pleasure to work with and we’ll keep him around the group, keep him focused, keep him positive and look forward to welcoming back.”
With Bodvarsson joining defender Jack Iredale on the long-term absentee list Wanderers will look to add to their January signings to bolster their striking options.
However, Evatt insists the Whites won’t be side-tracked from their plans as they continue to develop a squad which is already on the verge of being further strengthened with a third signing of the current transfer window.
“It doesn’t necessarily change our transfer plans,” added the Wanderers' boss.
“We know we’re probably one light in that area. Lots of hard work is going behind the scenes to bring somebody in.
“It doesn’t really change things from our perspective. It’s just about looking after Jon now and making sure he gets all the help and support he needs.”