Barnet skipper Ismail Yakubu, who missed the Johnstone's Paint Trophy tie away to Brighton & Hove Albion after going off against Stockport County with a groin injury, could be sidelined for weeks.

Although Paul Fairclough is refusing to put a time on a return, he and physiotherapist Mark Stein both rate the injury as serious. Yakubu, yet to be on the losing side since being awarded the captain's armband at the start of the season, fears he could be out of action for several weeks

Republic of Ireland defender Joe O'Cearuill, who played on loan at Brighton last season while an Arsenal player, had a good game as Ismail's deputy in the 2-1 defeat at the Withdean Stadium on Tuesday.

The news of Joe Devera, who limped off against Brighton with a bruised foot that has previously been bothering him, is brighter. Early indications are that he should be fit to keep his place against Mansfield Town on Saturday.

Midfielder Max Porter, who collected his first caution of the season, filled in for Devera when he went off at right back with substitute Stephane Seanla then partnering Neal Bishop in the heart of the Bees midfield.


Dennis Signy