NATIONWIDE Conference leaders Chester City were handed some bad news on the run up to the important Christmas fixture schedule last night, when it was revealed that first choice goalkeeper Wayne Brown could be out of action for nearly two months.
The former Bristol City and England National XI keeper broke bones in his foot during training yesterday, and an X-ray last night revealed the extent of the injury.
After the results of the hospital examination were made known City chairman Stephen Vaughan said: "This is a blow for us obviously. We have been told that Wayne will be out of action for between five to six weeks. But we have an adequate replacement in Ian McCaldon and he will now take over the first-choice keeper's jersey.
"Ian has been suffering from a slight thigh problem in the last week, but he will be okay for the weekend game at Tamworth."
Chester manager Mark Wright is now expected to search for a replacement goalkeeper to act as a back-up to McCaldon.
In another development at the Deva Stadium last night, it was revealed that UniBond League leaders Droylsden have had a bid for Chester's midfielder Steve Brodie accepted. Brodie has been on loan at the Butchers Arms for the past month.
Vaughan said: "We have accepted Droylsden's financial offer for Steve Brodie. It is now up to the player to agree personal terms. Whilst there will be a contractual settlement, if everything is agreed amicably then the deal could be completed quite quickly."
Wright and Vaughan did have some good news yesterday, when the Hull City and former Everton wing-back Carl Regan impressed the City backroom staff on the first day of his four-day trial with the club.
The 23-year-old Liverpool-born player is keen to find a club closer to his Merseyside home.
There's football at the Deva Stadium this evening when Liverpool Reserves entertain Bolton Wanderers in a Premier Reserve League match (KO 7pm).
The Reds' central defender Stephane Henchoz will make a return to action in the game following his recent injury problems.
