Crane Out For Season!

By: Rob Sedgwick
Date: 12/08/2004

TONY Crane will miss the rest of the season after being diagnosed with damaged cartilage of the knee. The former Owl will have to undergo surgery, which will mean a minimum of five months before he will be able to start light training again.

The news is a blow for the Mariners, with Crane under contract until the end of this season with Town. A disappointed Town boss Russell Slade told Radio Humberside: "The physio greeted me with that one this morning. We had thought Tony was only three weeks away with his fitness. Now he will be out for six to 12 months. It's quite serious for him and for us, as he may not play at all this season."

Fellow defender Rob Jones is also definitely out for Saturday's clash at Blundell Park with Bury. Although left wing back Ronnie Bull is expected to return after missing the midweek draw with Boston.

However, former Palace full back Dean Gordon trained today with the club, and Town will be hoping to be able to offer the experienced left-sided defender at contract at Blundell Park. If all goes well 31-year-old Gordon would be available in time for the match with Bury.