ACCRINGTON Stanley striker Jim McCluskie is out for the rest of the season.
The forward snapped his Achilles tendon in Tuesday's defeat to Barrow at the Crown Ground.
Accrington chairman Eric Whalley confirmed: "It is bad news and we don't think Jim will play again this season.
"He had surgery yesterday and is now recovering, but it will be several months before he is involved again.
"It is a very serious injury and it is a major blow for us this stage of the season.
"Jim is not only a a good player but is also a valuable member of our coaching staff."
McCluskie's injury leaves manager Leighton James with a major crisis for Saturday's Premier Division fixture at Spennymoor United.
"We are definitely struggling for players and we will have to move in the transfer market," added Whalley.
"It is too early to say whether we will have a face in place for the weekend."
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