Friday 15 July 2011 15:37, UK
Northampton's Kevin Thornton will undergo surgery to resolve a hernia problem and could miss the start of the season.
Midfielder Thornton, 25, has been ruled out of the Cobblers' opening pre-season friendly at Brackley on Saturday and is expected to be sidelined until next month. Manager Gary Johnson said: "Kevin has got to have an operation. He won't be in contention for the next two to three weeks and it's unfortunate for the lad because he was doing well." Irishman Thornton made 32 appearances for Northampton last season, scoring eight goals. Meanwhile, Johnson is hoping to send striker Tadhg Purcell out on loan as he recovers from a major knee injury.
