Kyle Ferguson is set to miss the remainder of the season through injury.
Speaking after Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Chesterfield, Head Coach Jimmy McNulty confirmed that the defender will need surgery on a thigh problem.
“Kyle Ferguson, unfortunately, has had a real significant injury in training, which we’re devastated about,” commented McNulty.
“He gives everything. He’s got the perfect attitude, and he wants to help the team.
“He got a real significant thigh strain and he’s going to need surgery on that. He’s going to be out for a number of months.
“It’s a difficult one for Kyle after the season he’s had, which hasn’t really got going for him.”
With almost a full squad to choose from – just Ferguson and goalkeeper Brad Kelly are out injured – McNulty had to omit some players from his 16-man matchday squad.
Dale have a busy schedule of Saturday-Tuesday matches coming up, which, McNulty says, will mean he has to rotate his squad.
“For the first time ever, I’ve been able to rotate. I’ve been able to bring players out that have needed a rest.
“I’ve been watching performances and you get to that 30-game stage of a season, and people do plateau.
“They can feel flat and they do need a bit of inspiration, or find the best version of themselves again. But we’ve not been able to do that, we’ve had to bat on, no matter how those players have been batting.
“There were guys not part of the squad today in Jesurun [Uchegbulam], Cameron John and Max Taylor.
“I’ve got to keep my eyes on them and look for the guys out there that need help and a rest.
“None of them will want to rest because they want to help us and they’re desperate to fight. I’ll have to fight with my own players to sometimes tell them what I think is best for them.
“We’ve got a monstrous schedule coming up. We’re a good few games behind teams. Having a healthier, deeper squad gives us the best chance of coping with that schedule and the run-in.”
Watch the full post-match interview with McNulty below via our official YouTube channel.