George Nevett will be side lined for almost two months through injury.
The defender has suffered ligament damage to his ankle and Head Coach Jimmy McNulty says he will be out for around eight weeks.
“I want to give you better news,” said McNulty.
“I want the situation and the tone to change. I don’t want to be in this state of mind.
“George hurt his ankle in the last game and has damaged his ankle ligaments. We’ve had it scanned and he’s going to be out for eight weeks.
“It’s a blow him, us and the club.”
Nevett has made 23 appearances for Dale in all competitions this season, having only signed his first professional contract in the summer.
The 17-year-old joins a substantial injury list for Dale, which includes Adam Clayton, Kairo Mitchell, Devante Rodney, Jesurun Uchegbulam, Brad Kelly and Kyle Ferguson.
Speedy recovery, George!