CAPTAIN Greg Tindle will receive Chippenham Town’s full support as he recovers from surgery as the central defender gets set for six months on the sidelines.

Tindle, who captained the Bluebirds to the Southern League Premier Division title in the 2016-17 season, has a tear in the ring of cartilage around the outside rim of his hip joint and will go under the knife to alleviate the problem

Manager Mark Collier says it is a bitter blow to lose such an important player but believes Tindle will return to action in Chippenham colours all the stronger.

“It is a disappointment for him and for the club. He has been a top player for us and he will be again, there is no doubt about that,” said Collier.

“He is down in the dumps about his injury and I don’t think he has played for five or six weeks already while we have been getting scans and specialist views.

“We now know that he has got to have an operation and is going to be out for a minimum of six months.

“It is a blow for us because you always want your best players and your characters on the pitch. He is the captain so he is the leader and he will be sorely missed.

“He needs our support now and he will certainly get it.”

After securing FA Cup progress on Tuesday night following a 1-0 replay win at Swindon Supermarine in the second qualifying round, Chippenham return to National League South action on Saturday away at Dulwich Hamlet.

Collier said: “We have had them watched and they are a big, powerful, pacey side.

“They are dangerous, without a doubt. It is a difficult place to go and it will be a tough game.

“Our league form is good and we got another win and another clean sheet on Tuesday, so that is pleasing.

“We can put the cup to bed now and look forward to Saturday at Dulwich.”