Chester midfielder Glenn Cronin may be forced to retire from professional football after breaking his metatarsal for the third time. Cronin, 25, made only four appearances last season because of the injury.
And chairman Stephen Vaughan told the club's website: "This looks to be career-threatening.
"It's a major setback for the lad at such a young age and obviously for Bobby's plans. The whole team are really upset for Glenn."