Central defender Steve Blatherwick is to seek yet further advice on his recurring back injury from another specialist after his visit this week proved inconclusive.

The club is making every effort to ensure that any decision about Steve's future is taken with full knowledge of all the options open.

Despite a bright start to pre-season training Steve incurred further problems with his long-standing back problem and wasn't able to take part in any pre-season practice games.  Several attempts to regain full fitness have so far been unsuccessful. 

A trademark header.  

Chesterfield manager Roy McFarland said: "We have booked Steve in to see another specialist to see if there is anything that can be done. The prognosis dosen't look good and Steve's injury is starting to look as though it is career threatening.  We will wait to see what this further specialist has to say before reaching that conclusion."

The 32 year old, who is currently the Spireites longest-serving player, has so far been with Chesterfield for eight years and is a commanding figure at the centre of the Blues defence.