Big Doncaster Rovers blow as Frankie Okoronkwo injury news relayed + Jack Senior absence explained

The 21-year-old was a surprise omission from the Rovers teamsheet in the lunchtime defeat at Bradford City. He started the midweek win over Leyton Orient and generally impressed, making his absence against Bradford keenly felt.

When asked about it post-match, McCann explained: "Frankie's going to be out for about four weeks.

"He's felt his left hamstring. He felt his right one against Wimbledon and now his left against Leyton Orient (last Tuesday). I've spoken about this before. He wasn't playing much (at Lincoln) and wasn't involved and probably wasn't training as hard as he should really.

"That's what happens when you're not in the team. It's something we try and keep on top of here, when players aren't playing - we try and keep them ready. But you've got to be ready as well.

"As a player, you've got to push yourself to get ready. I think because of the lack of game time at Lincoln he's coming to us a little bit under-power. But he's in good hands. Dave (Rennie, head of medical) will try and get him back as quick as he can. It's frustrating because he gives us a different dimension and is completely different to Billy (Sharp) and Brandon (Hanlan). So, it's frustrating to lose him."

Meanwhile, McCann confirmed that full-back Jack Senior missed out against the Bantams owing to a sickness bug. James Maxwell stood in for Senior – his first start since Boxing Day. McCann said of the Scot: “Maxi is in good competition with Jack and we need that, in every position. Players have to be ready for moments like that today.”

Rovers are on the road again on Tuesday when they travel to Burton Albion in a hastily re-arranged league game.