Jimmy McNulty confirmed that Devante Rodney is struggling with illness following Friday’s 2-2 draw with Bromley.
The striker hasn’t featured for Dale since the opening day after contracting a viral infection, which has kept him side lined.
Following scans this week, Dale’s Head Coach confirmed that Rodney will be missing for a longer period than first suspected.
“It’s not very good,” commented McNulty.
“Dev has been for a number of chest scans, the final of which discovered some complications with his viral infection, that is a bit naughty.
“We’ll lose Dev for much longer than we thought, which is a genuine shame. With the way we’re playing, Dev in and around that box, could be devastating.
“He’s picked up this virus, which has taken a bit of a nasty turn, and we’re told now that it’s going to take quite a bit of time before we see Dev again, unfortunately.”
Rodney was on the bench for last weekend’s draw with Eastleigh, despite not knowing the full extent of his illness at that time, something McNulty says is testament to last season’s top scorer.
“I think everyone earmarked Dev this season to be our standout goalscorer, or will he get a move away, but he only ever showed desire to stay here and play.
“He started pre-season really well. He was disappointed he didn’t score on the opening day with the chances that he had. But then his season has stopped there and then.
“It’s testament to his character that he came on to the bench for us last week – when he didn’t really know what was wrong with him but he knew something wasn’t good.
“He was willing to sit on the bench with the team low on numbers, because Hendo is carrying an injury as well but playing for the team.”