COLIN Coates faces an extended spell on the sidelines after aggravating an ankle injury in midweek.
Coates lasted only 10 minutes in a friendly with the PSNI and requires further treatment.
Crusaders boss Stephen Baxter said it was frustrating for the club skipper.
“It is a balancing act, because we want Colin back but at the same time we don’t want to keep aggravating the injury,” he said.
“Colin hasn’t played 90 minutes all season and he is desperate to get back, but he will probably need another couple of weeks rehabilitation and then we will take it from there.
“So we will bring Josh Robinson into the squad for Saturday’s game.”
Crusaders were on a three-game winning streak until last week’s 1-0 defeat to Glenavon.
Baxter believes lethargy may have crept into his players following their exertions against Linfield.
“We put a lot into the Linfield game to get the win, and I think on the Saturday the players suffered from jelly legs,” he added.
“It was a disappointing performance and result, but now we have to try and bounce back.
“I am happy where we are at right now.
“We know if we win on Saturday then we could move into second spot in the table.
“After seven games that would be satisfying.”
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