Words John Edwards | Picture Jonathan Moore

Altrincham have been dealt a setback after learning that Ethan Ross' injury is to his anterior cruciate ligament and he will need surgery that will keep him out for the rest of the season.

The Robins were hoping any damage would be minimal, but after he underwent a scan, the news reached us earlier today that an ACL operation was required and our inspirational goalkeeper would face a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Given that it was immediately apparent he would miss some games, Alty bosses sprang into action over the weekend and managed to secure a loan deal for Norwich City keeper Caleb Ansen, who will go straight into the side against Oldham Athletic at Boundary Park this evening.

Ethan's injury is a cruel blow for a player whose consistent brilliance between the posts and genial, approachable nature off the pitch has made him such a firm favourite with team-mates, club officials and fans.

In wishing Ethan well with his rehab programme, the club are mindful that a solution is needed to his long-term absence and will explore all options as a matter of urgency in the coming days.

In the meantime, we are grateful to Norwich and Caleb for consenting to a loan move which means that, while plans are formulated, we can make use of a highly-rated young keeper who has twice been on the bench for the Canaries in Championship games and has European experience for their under-21 team after keeping a clean sheet against PSV Eindhoven in the Premier League International Cup at Carrow Road a couple of months ago.