CHESTER FC'S preparations for the season have been dealt a blow as club captain George Glendon has suffered an ACL injury.

The football club announced the news on Wednesday, July 27, and revealed it is likely Glendon will be sidelined for the entire 2022/23 season.

A club statement from the Blues said: "George was forced off during the pre-season fixture at Whitchurch Alport earlier this month with a scan confirming the Blues skipper had sustained a partial tear of his anterior cruciate ligament.

"Following extensive consultation with specialists over the past 10 days, George has been advised that he will require surgery, which is understandably distressing news for the 27-year-old.

"While there is no timescale on his return, the likelihood is that George will be unavailable for the upcoming campaign.

"Everyone at the club is sending George our best wishes and we will be doing everything we can to support him through his recovery."

Blues vice chairman Jim Green said: “We’re devastated for George and our focus since the injury has been on supporting him and ensuring he could access medical expertise.

“George has tried everything to avoid surgery, but unfortunately he has been advised that it is the only real option in the circumstances.

“To lose a player of George’s quality and stature in this manner is obviously a blow, not least because he’s been so important to the changes we’ve put in place this summer.

“George leads by example and has completely invested in the new training model. His determination to deliver success for the football club and our fans is palpable.

“As a club we will make sure we are there for George, and I’ve no doubt he will return stronger and continue to play an influential role this season for the team.”

Chester FC are due to begin their National League North campaign away at Alfreton on Saturday, August 6.

It is the second time a Blues player has been sidelined with an ACL injury this year.

Matty Waters, who came through the Academy at Chester FC, suffered a ruptured ACL in their home game against Kidderminster Harriers in April.

He has since had surgery and Chester FC are looking to resign him once he returns to full fitness.

In the meantime, Chester Former Players' Association has been raising funds to support Waters through his rehabilitation.

More than £3,000 has been raised through a Justgiving page, and Blues fans can donate at https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/mattywaterschester