"A massive blow" - that was how manager Mark Stimson greeted the news that 21-year-old central defender Darren Denehy has torn a ligament in his right foot.

"It will be a long term injury", confirmed physiotherapist Simon Murphy after anxious days by the club's medical team assessing the damage and the options. The 6ft 4ins tall Republic of Ireland U19 and U21 international limped off in pain after 19 minutes against Cheltenham Town and was taken to hospital for an x-ray.

Daniel Leach, who has been playing at left back in recent games, switched to central defence and substitute Jordan Parkes took over. Although Stimson won't divulge his team until shortly before kick-off, an educated guess would suggest that the Bees will field the side that finished against Cheltenham in tomorrow's game.

The manager told www.barnetfc.com : "I am disappointed. Darren had started the season well and was shaping like he could be one of the best central defenders in League 2.

"He could be a miss, but whoever takes over will, I am sure, will do a good job".

Dennehy, who played 19 games on loan for Gillingham under Stimson last season, opted to join Barnet rather than stay with the Kent club. He signed for the Bees in July from Cardiff City.


Dennis Signy