Darlington were last night dealt a major blow after it was discovered Andy Collett faces two months on the sidelines.

The Quakers No 1 is recuperating in hospital after it was discovered last week that he'd sustained a punctured lung.

Collett has not played since suffering a recurrence of a shoulder injury at Wolves in the Carling Cup a fortnight ago, Michael Price standing in.

And despite recovering, the former Middlesbrough stopper faces more time on the treatment table after picking up his latest injury, which is expected to keep him out until December.

"I spoke to Colly on Saturday and he's still in a bit of pain," said Tait.

"We're looking at six to eight weeks before he can do anything and then he's got to come back into training. It's a huge blow."

Collett's injury is the latest in a line of setbacks for the 29-year-old, who missed eight games of last season with a rib injury.

And, after missing Quakers' entire pre-season programme with a shoulder problem, Tait believes the news will come as a major personal blow for the crocked star.

"It's not just bad for us but it's very disappointing for Colly as well," said Tait. "He hasn't had the best of luck with injuries but we just have to get on with it."

Second choice goalkeeper Price suffered a head injury in the 3-1 defeat at Mansfield but will be fit for Saturday's visit of Bristol Rovers.

The 20-year-old had to have three stitches after clashing with Stags striker Junior Mendes.

And while 16-year-old youth-team keeper Jack Norton provides Tait with his only back-up, the Quakers' boss will not be hurried into making any loan moves.

Tait has been satisfied with the performances of Price, which would make any moves for a temporary signing unlikely, with many clubs insistent on loaning players out with the guarantee of first-team football.

Tait, meanwhile, suffered a further injury blow yesterday when Neil Wainwright broke down in training. He has missed Quakers' last three games with an ankle injury.