Stockport County will be forced to field a weakened team against Blackburn Rovers due to their mounting injury crisis.

Rovers travel to Edgeley Park on Tuesday night for the first round of the Carabao Cup. John Eustace is also expected to make changes but it should still be a very competitive Rovers side.

Stockport started their season with a 2-0 win over Cambridge United after promotion to League One. However, they are struggling for fit players and will therefore be forced to play some Academy players.

Key players such as Nick Powell, Micky Mellon, Lewis Fiorini and Tanto Olaofe are among the 10 players unavailable. New club captain Lewis Bate also went off with a knock at the weekend.

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"It'll be a very young team. The competition for me is important, I got to the final as a player and the memories you can create from that," boss Dave Challinor told the club.

"But we're not in a position where we can risk players. One came off on Saturday, if he's unavailable that takes us to 12 senior outfield players. 

"We can't afford to risk anybody. There are some that need minutes and they will get minutes but there will be an element of youth-team players and scholars.

"It's a great opportunity for them. It could be a tough night for us and I'm willing to accept that unfortunately in this situation. 

"I haven't got a choice to make because I have to ensure we're as strong as possible for Blackpool next weekend."