ACCRINGTON Stanley captain Peter Cavanagh could be fit for Friday's crucial clash with Hereford United.

It was feared the Reds skipper might be sidelined for several weeks after he limped out of Saturday's 1-1 draw at home to Gravesend, then was carried to the dressing room by two of his team-mates.

Stanley fans must have dreaded the worst, especially as an injury at Burton Albion on Good Friday last season kept the right back out for the remainder of the campaign.

But physio Ian Liversedge, who has helped to nurse the 23-year-old back to first team action, says Saturday's knock is not as serious.

"It's the same ankle he injured at Burton last season, which kept him out for about three months," Liversedge said.

"Even when he came back in pre-season it still wasn't right.

"But he hasn't done the same damage he did earlier this year.

"Last time he damaged all around his ankle - ligaments, tendons and the back of his joint, which was the part that was giving him all the problems.

"But he just suffered a minor sprain on Saturday and it has settled down now."

Liversedge added that Cavanagh would undergo treatment between now and Friday's visit of Hereford, who were among the early season favourites for promotion.

"I'm not sure if he will be fit for Friday but we'll assess him during the week," he said.

"It isn't as bad as last time though. He should be back quite soon.

"And it's not something that will necessarily need operating on. He had an injection for it in June and the surgeon said he might need another at some stage or they might need to do something else at the end of the season."

Meanwhile, midfielder Andy Procter should find out later this month whether he requires surgery on his knee.

"Andy is due to have a camera in his knee some time this month," he said.

"He hasn't had a date for that through yet but afterwards we will know what's required to be done long-term for him."