Sutton: I don't think Pearce will play again this season

Lincoln City's fragile defence is at breaking point after Ian Pearce was ruled out for the rest of the season.

The Imps assistant player-manager hobbled off during the second half of Lincoln's 3-1 victory over Hereford and is unlikely to play anymore of the current campaign.

His injury, coupled with loss of Adam Watts (broken leg), Nathan Baker (ankle) and Moses Swaibu (leg), means the Imps are without four centre-backs ahead of tonight's home clash against Dagenham & Redbridge (7.45pm).

"Ian Pearce is in a bad way," explained Imps boss Chris Sutton.

"He got home on Friday night and hasn't got out of bed since.

"I don't think he'll play again this season.

"Moses is still to be assessed. But the hope is that he's not too bad as he only got a kick and has not twisted his ankle."

It is likely that Danny Hone, the club's only fit recognised centre-back will line-up alongside right-back Paul Green in the centre of defence.

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