Tranmere defender David Raven will be sidelined for six weeks after learning he requires double hernia surgery.

Raven has been out of action with the problem since Rovers' 3-0 loss at Exeter in November.

"Dave is having a double hernia operation on Tuesday in Manchester, so he's going to be out for about six weeks," manager Les Parry told Tranmere's official website.

Since joining from Shrewsbury in the summer, Raven has made 18 starts and two substitute appearances in all competitions for the Prenton Park outfit.

PA Sport