Notts County boss Shaun Derry has admitted that he is unsure when Gary Liddle will be fit to return to action with the club.

The 27-year-old suffered an ankle injury during County's 1-1 draw with Bristol City at the weekend, but Derry is optimistic that surgery will not be required to correct the issue.

"Gary's struggling with his ankle. I felt it was a bad tackle at the time, I've got to say, and after seeing it again on replays that has just clarified my view," Derry told reporters at a press conference.

"He will be out of the next couple of games at the very least, but he's an honest guy and he'll get back as soon as he possibly can because he's a proper man. It doesn't look like a break, so we'll have to wait to see exactly what the damage is.

"It's a tough knock for the lad, but he'll bounce back. Hopefully he won't be out for too long because he's been immense for us, since the minute I walked through the door, he's been fantastic."

Liddle departed Meadow Lane with a protective boot.