RHYL midfielder Dave McIntyre is set for a considerable time on the sidelines after suffering a serious injury in their defeat to Gresford Athletic.

The talented playmaker, who was turning out against the club he left to join the Lilies this summer, suffered a suspected fractured skull in the clash and he is currently undergoing hospital treatment to assess the extent of the damage.

McIntyre was one of a number of high-profile arrivals to the Corbett Sports Stadium this summer as director of football Eddie Maurice-Jones completely reshaped the squad with a view to pushing for the Huws Gray Alliance title this term.

The news comes as a huge blow to the squad given McIntyre’s influence both on-and-off the field, with the Lilywhites still awaiting the return of Stewart Carroll from a spell out with injury during what has been a frustrating start to the season for the combative midfielder.

McIntyre is reported to be “doing well” following the incident, which occurred in the opening exchanges of the contest and saw him eventually replaced by Matthew Cook after 23 minutes.

The 28-year-old joined Gresford in September 2016 after a short spell at Cefn Druids. Prior to that he spent three seasons at Denbigh Town and his former clubs include Rhos Aelwyd, Ruthin Town, Castell Alyn Colts and Gretna.