ACCRINGTON Stanley have been plunged into a goalkeeper crisis after Jon Kennedy broke his leg in training yesterday.

The 24-year-old, who has been an ever present this season, will be out of action for up to three months after the freak accident.

His injury blow will pave the way for youngster Danny Alcock to make his full debut for the Reds tonight.

It could be a baptism of fire for the 20-year-old former Stoke City and Barnsley stopper as Stanley have a date with the Sky TV cameras when they entertain promotion rivals Hereford United at the Interlink Express Stadium (kick-off 7.45pm).

Manager John Coleman has moved quickly as he seeks to find a replacement for Kennedy and has already spoken to two stoppers.

However, he is in no doubt that Alcock will be up for the challenge tonight.

"Danny is going to play tonight," Coleman confirmed. "At the end of the day, in the Conference there are no easy games, but he is confident."

Meanwhile Kennedy, who will be presented with his England National Game XI cap by Blackburn Rovers legend Bryan Douglas tonight, along with team-mates Peter Cavanagh, Andy Procter and Ian Craney, admitted he was shocked at the extent of his injury.

"I'm absolutely gutted," he said.