Joe Rankin-Costello is facing three months on the sidelines after suffering a serious hamstring injury.

The versatile 24-year-old was forced off with the issue against Norwich City at the weekend. Jon Dahl Tomasson was fearful it could be a serious problem considering Rankin-Costello's history of hamstring woes.

Rovers' worst fears were realised when a scan confirmed that he would be out for a significant period of time. He joins Ryan Hedges on the long-term injury list, who had surgery on his hamstring problem in September.

Fortunately, Rankin-Costello is not expected to need surgery, though Tomasson warned that advice may change. It is a major blow for Rovers though, who will be without him until February at the best.

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"We have a lot of injuries," Tomasson said. "We have Ryan Hedges, still out, Sam Gallagher, Aynsley Pears and Sam Barnes.

"Dom Hyam and Hayden are missing as well. The latest one is a huge blow, Rankin-Costello will be out for a long time, about three months.

"It's hugely disappointing for the players themselves when they get injured. We know they want to contribute to the team. We have been able to win a lot of games lately despite the squad being so stretched.

"We have been travelling a lot too. There are a few people that are a little bit doubtful. We know when you have been travelling for six hours in the car, even if you haven't been playing football your body is tired, your mind is tired. "It's not an excuse but it's common sense."

"At the moment, the news I've had is conservative so no, he doesn't need surgery," he added. "That can change. but right now, no.

"It's very disappointing that he's injured for himself and for us. We can't change it, we are very pleased with the lads who have been playing for us in a difficult circumstance."

Tomasson is expecting to have more news on Dom Hyam's injury after the Preston North End match. The Rovers head coach also confirmed Semir Telalovic will be on the bench after his hat-trick for the Under-21s whilst Hayden Carter will be fit after the international break.

The positive news is that Scott Wharton is available after being sent off against Norwich City. The FA rescinded the dismissal earlier this week and Tomasson is delighted to have him available.

"The good news is that Scott will be available," he said. "When decisions are made, they're made quickly and it can be difficult to do that.

"When you see the angle from behind, you can see Scott touches the ball. I am very pleased that they turned that card around."