Crewe defender George Ray facing cheekbone surgery

Wales Under-21 international Ray was stretchered off and taken to hospital following an aerial challenge with Latics' Jordy Hiwula and will see a consultant on Friday.

"He's gone to see the specialist in Liverpool to have a look at the cheek to see whether it needs an operation or whether he thinks it will just heal," manager Steve Davis told the club's official website.

"There's a crack in the cheekbone and I think it's just gone in slightly so he's going to have a look at that for us.

"You see a lot of players these days wearing protective masks and such, but I'm not too sure what stage you can wear one and play.

"But it's too soon for George at the moment. We'll know a lot more about the timescale after (Friday)."

Ray's injury leaves Crewe short of central defenders with Harry Davis currently sidelined due to a knee problem.