Shrewsbury Town will step up their quest for midfield reinforcements amid fears that Kevin McIntyre could miss the remainder of the season.

McIntyre was due to see a specialist in Oswestry this afternoon after suffering a double fracture of the fibula in Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Port Vale.

That appointment will provide a better indication of the expected rehabilitation timescale for the 31-year-old.

But, with manager Paul Simpson already looking to bolster his midfield options even before the injury, McIntyre’s setback is only likely to hasten that search ahead of this weekend’s visit of Darlington.

“The injury is really disappointing for Kev and it’s a big blow for us as well,” said Simpson.

“Since I came into the club, he has been a real steady Eddie. He is a good worker and a good lad to have around the dressing room.

“We just have to hope it is a quick recovery. We will know more after today but at this stage we might be looking at about eight to 12 weeks so I would have to say I would be surprised if he plays again this season. 

“But we will wait and see what the specialist says and take it from there.

“With David Hunt going and losing Joss Labadie, I felt we needed another body in midfield anyway so hopefully we can do something.”

Meanwhile, winger Marc Pugh is anxiously waiting to learn whether an appeal against his sending off on Saturday will be successful.

The FA disciplinary committee were expected to sit this afternoon after Shrewsbury officials elected to attempt to get the decision, and three-match ban, overturned.

“I watched the incident I don’t know how many times over the weekend and I still believe it’s a harsh decision,” added Simpson.

“I spoke to lots of people to get their opinions on it as well and they were all of the same opinion so we will see what happens.”

Town reserves are in action at the Prostar Stadium tomorrow afternoon when they entertain Mansfield (2pm).

By JAMES GARRISON