The wing-back is set for another lengthy spell on the sidelines

Joe Tomlinson looks set for another lengthy spell on the sidelines after suffering a knee injury which could keep him out for three months.

Looking to block a late cross into the box against Notts County on Tuesday night, Tomlinson took a hit from a Magpies player. Though he played on, and missed a great chance to draw Dons level deep into stoppage time, the injury looks more serious than first anticipated.

The 25-year-old has already missed two months after suffering a foot injury in August, ruling him out until mid-October.

“He’s damaged his knee too trying to block the cross which led to the corner for Notts County’s third goal,” Warne confirmed. “He will be out for a good 10-12 weeks, which is really disappointing. He’s been in good form too, I’m really disappointed for him and for the team because he has been great.”

It comes as a blow for head coach Paul Warne, who, after seeing the returns of Tomlinson and Gethin Jones, was starting to have distinct options available to him in the wing-back role.

“It was good to have four wing-backs fit, because we could dip and dab. I felt like, in recent weeks, our wing-backs have been brilliant at getting into the box. Joe’s nicked a couple of goals, Aaron has as well, they’re getting themselves into goal-scoring positions.”

Fellow wing-back Jon Mellish added: “I’m gutted for Joe. He’s been doing really well since he came back in, and he will be a big miss. He’s got a lot of traits which are really helpful to the team, I hope it’s not too long before we see him back doing what he does.

“We’ve got good relationships at wing-back on and off the pitch. We want to push each other, and we know if one of us starts, the other will be waiting to come on so we can max out and let the other come on to finish the job. And on occasions we’ve seen someone come on and get a goal to change the game. It’s good to have plenty of options, and we’re all enjoying it.”

Striker Callum Paterson, who limped out of the game, is also set to miss Saturday’s game against Cambridge United with a knee issue.