ANOTHER injury has hit Dougie Freedman’s plans as he looks for a pick-me-up in the Capital One Cup tonight at Tranmere Rovers.

Saturday’s man of the match Tim Ream has joined Chris Eagles on the missing list, while David Ngog is unlikely to be risked after returning from illness.

That leaves the Wanderers boss considering major changes from the team that lost out on home turf to QPR.

American Ream had lined up in midfield for the first time in the 1-0 defeat, but despite impressing in his new role, was brought off before the end of the game as a precautionary measure.

“Because of the injuries, I’ll be forced into changes,” said Freedman.

“That was Tim’s first league game and, for me, he was man of the match.

“But I had to bring him off because he was feeling a bit of tightness in his hamstrings. I can’t really risk Tim again.

“That will possibly give someone else an opportunity to play in the cup.”

Craig Davies and Rob Hall made cases for inclusion from the start at Prenton Park after lively performances from the bench at the weekend, while Freedman’s hand has been strengthened with the return of Darren Pratley from suspension.

But the manager hinted that other players in his squad are also bearing the scars of the QPR defeat, which could lead him to make more extensive changes.

Keeper Andy Lonergan, new arrival Andre Moritz and the hero of the first round, Sanmi Odelusi, could be given a chance to shine, while Matt Mills and Tyrone Mears – both unused subs against QPR – could also come into the equation.

Meanwhile, whizkid Zach Clough will be sidelined for several weeks with a hernia problem.
The young striker, who had forced his way on to the fringe of Dougie Freedman’s first team, is set to undergo surgery before starting his rehabilitation.