Rob Wilson will miss Workington Reds’ crunch league clash with Stourbridge tomorrow (kick-off 3pm).

Wilson has suffered a recurrence of an old ankle injury, which comes at a bad time for Reds, who are already without fellow midfielders Anthony Wright and James Earl.

Joint-manager Dave Hewson admitted it wasn’t an ideal situation but they could handle whatever was thrown at them.

“It has come at a bad time but Rob has done everything he can throughout the week to rest it, but he’s not right,” said Hewson.

“Rob had a serious ankle injury just before he joined Reds and, at times, he gets a slight recurrence. It’s just unfortunate that it has happened now.

“But there is very little chance that he will be fit to play this weekend."

“Obviously, we still have Anthony Wright out injured and James Earl is still suspended," added Hewson.

“So with Rob out, that leaves us a bit short in midfield.

“But this is nothing that we won’t deal with and it gives other lads an opportunity to come in and stake a claim.”

Hewson added he was keen to see as many people as possible swell the crowd at Borough Park tomorrow to show their support for his former team-mate Tony Hopper.

The ex-Reds midfielder and his family will be guests of honour at tomorrow’s game.

It comes after Hopper, 40, was diagnosed with Bulbar-onset Motor Neurone Disease.

“We don’t want a big crowd for any other reason than to support Tony tomorrow,” said Hewson.

“He has played with a number of different people over the years and we hope that as many of them as possible will come down.

“This is a good opportunity for everyone involved with the club to show their support for Tony and what he is going through.

“And also to say thanks for everything he has done for Workington Reds over the years.”