WES Thomas has been ruled out for the rest of Oxford United's season after rupturing one of his Achilles tendons on Saturday.

The striker is expected to have surgery later this week after going for a scan today to determine the issue.

But whatever the suggested course of treatment, the 29-year-old will not feature again during this campaign.

U's boss Michael Appleton said: "Apparently there are various things which can be done, whether it’s stitching or a graft.

"I would imagine by Wednesday he would be going under the knife so in the next 48 hours we’ll find out exactly what the procedure will be.

"But the reality is, it’s his season finished."

Thomas was carried off just ten minutes after being introduced as a substitute in the 4-1 victory against Coventry City.

The stretcher bearers were required again before the end of the game, after Joe Skarz sustained mild concussion following a clash of heads with teammate Chey Dunkley.

The left back was quickly discharged from hospital and reported for training this morning.

But with mandatory procedures surrounding head injuries to follow, Skarz will definitely not be considered for tomorrow's meeting with Gillingham.

Appleton said: "He will miss the game tomorrow and in terms of protocols there are certain boxes he’s got to tick to give himself any chance of being available for Saturday (away to Scunthorpe).

"It’s probably going to be the following week if we’re really being honest."

"You have to follow a protocol because you can’t take risks with head injuries."