OXFORD United boss Chris Wilder admitted the news that Alfie Potter will miss the rest of the season is hard to take.

The winger went over on his ankle in training late on Friday, and United’s worst fears were realised over the weekend when it was confirmed there was a break that needs an operation.

Coming 48 hours after it was revealed that striker Tom Craddock would be out for at least another month with a troublesome hamstring injury, it has been a real double whammy for the U’s.

Wilder said that as soon as Potter fell badly in training, everyone knew the injury was serious.

“It’s really disappointing news,” United’s boss said. “It was at the back end of training and Alfie went for a ball, caught it on his chest and fell awkwardly.

“Everybody instantly knew he was in a lot of pain and was in a bad place.

“He had an x-ray Friday and a scan on Saturday morning and he has displaced a bone in his ankle and he will need an operation – that’s him out for the season.”

While you never want to lose any key players through injury, to have two ruled out so soon after each other, Wilder says, is particularly frustrating.

“We are not one of the biggest squads in terms of numbers, but to lose two players of that quality will hit you hard,” he said.

“Tommy has had a really frustrating time this season and to take what I think is 20 goals out of your team is a big hit.

“And with Alfie’s unfortunate injury as well, it’s difficult to take.”