Doug Tharme's season is over after the Grimsby Town defender suffered a serious hamstring injury. The 27-year-old re-injured his other hamstring in a pre-season friendly, having only just returned from eight months out with a similar issue.
He made his first appearance of the season in Tuesday's 2-1 defeat to Notts County in the Jersey Mike's Trophy, captaining the side. That match, which saw Jayden Sweeney score a late equaliser before a stoppage-time winner for the hosts, was his only action before the latest setback.
Tharme said he had to allow the hurt to happen after his long initial recovery. He added it was nice to feel part of the team again during his brief return.
Club Standing
The injury comes at a difficult time for Dave Artell's side, who are third in League Two with 13 points from seven games. They sit just two points behind leaders Barnet, with a goal difference of plus five after scoring 11 and conceding six. Their recent form shows two wins, two draws and a loss from their last five outings.
The squad depth will be tested immediately, with a trip to 19th-placed Newport County next on the fixtures list.
Grimsby travel to face Newport County on Saturday, aiming to maintain their strong start to the League Two campaign without a key defensive figure.
