MARGATE have suffered a blow with the news that defender Greg Oates will be out of action for at least two months after breaking his arm.

The former Arsenal defender was injured in the 1-0 defeat at Braintree, and underwent surgery to have two pins inserted in the injury.

Meanwhile midfielder Hasim Deen has included in the Gambia Under-23 squad for an international tournament later this month. His absence co-incides with him having to serve a ban, following his sending-off in the same game in Essex on October 29.

Boss Chris Kinnear has also released Daniel Sacha from his squad.