Crainey setback for Blackpool

Crainey: Groin operation

Blackpool full-back Stephen Crainey could be out for a further six weeks after undergoing a groin operation.

Crainey has yet to make an appearance for Blackpool this term after picking up the problem in pre-season.

The 27-year-old had been working towards full fitness over the summer after having knee surgery at the end of the last campaign.

However, he may not return to action until the end of October after Seasiders boss Simon Grayson confirmed Crainey had gone under the knife.

Blow

"Stephen had an operation on Monday on his groin," Crainey told the club's official website. "It got to a certain stage where it wasn't getting any better and following discussions with the specialist we decided to operate to try and get things sorted.

"I think he will be out for four to six weeks which is going to be a bit of a blow for us.

"It is disappointing for Stephen because he worked so hard over summer to get back following his knee injury."

Grayson has already extended the loan of Derby defender Mo Camara by a further month in order to compensate for Crainey's continued absence.