Abbott faces a tough decision surrounding his future

Darlington manager Dave Penney is worried about the long-term fitness of striker Pawel Abbott after the Pole's latest injury setback.

The 26-year-old damaged ankle ligaments in training on Monday and Penney fears Abbott is struggling to cope with the rigours of League Two football.

"His body seems to be breaking down at this time," he told BBC Tees.

"I'm really worried for the boy that his body is having a problem with day-to-day professional football."

Abbott, who signed for a club record fee of �100,000 in August 2007, has been plagued with a string of injuries throughout his Darlington career.

Meanwhile there was a boost for the Quakers with the potential return of on-loan striker Liam Hatch and Penney is keen to press him into action against Port Vale on Saturday.

"Injury-wise, hopefully Hatch is back in with us, it was only a slight strain," he said.

"We didn't want it to turn into a six or eight week job, we've got him here until January.

"Hopefully that will be the only game he'll miss with it and he'll be in with us on Saturday."