Carlisle United striker Charlie Wyke has been ruled out for the rest of the season with a serious ankle injury.

The Blues have revealed the extent of the injury that saw the captain stretchered off during last Saturday's 1-0 defeat to Cheltenham Town.

The club have announced that Wyke suffered a fracture and dislocation of his left ankle and needs surgery.

The news comes as a major blow to the 31-year-old and the Blues.

Wyke was injured in a challenge from Cheltenham's Luke Young in the second half of Saturday's game.

The frontman, who rejoined United during the summer, came off the bench at half-time but had to be stretchered off on the hour mark and was taken to hospital.

Wyke was stretchered off on SaturdayWyke was stretchered off on Saturday (Image: Ben Holmes)

United have pledged their full support to Wyke in his recovery.

Head coach Mike Williamson said on the club website: “It’s obviously disappointing news for Charlie and for all of us. 

“He’s our captain and he’ll be missed, but we know how tough he is and we’re all right behind him. 

“He’s got the complete support of everyone at the football club, and we’ll help him through this in whatever way we can.”

Wyke has made 14 appearances and scored two goals this season, having signed a two-year deal in the summer following his release from Wigan Athletic.

The news deprives United of their most experienced forward for the remainder of a season which currently sees the Blues in deep trouble in League Two.

They are 23rd and four points adrift of the safety line after 14 games. United have this week welcomed back loan striker Daniel Adu-Adjei, who has returned from parent club AFC Bournemouth after his recovery from a knee injury.

Adu-Adjei, Luke Armstrong and Tyler Burey are United's main fit forward players, with striker Georgie Kelly still out injured.