Chesterfield defender Phil Picken has had a double hernia operation this week after reporting some discomfort during the close season.

The 21 year old still hopes to be back for the start of the new season though.

Chesterfield manager Lee Richardson said: "Phil recently reported some discomfort so we had it checked out and it revealed a hernia operation was adviseable."

"We decided to take immediate action so he has the best chance of being fully fit for the new season."