Gethin Jones will be given as much time as he needs away from football following the tragic loss of his mother.
Karen Jones passed away last Sunday following a brave battle against Motor Neurone Disease.
Gethin will not feature in Wanderers’ game at Gillingham on Saturday and manager Ian Evatt confirmed that the defender, 26, will be allowed to spend extended time with father Gareth and younger siblings Dylan and Ela before returning to the club when he’s ready.
“It’s heart-breaking for us all. I’ve used this quote a few times now and when one of us hurts, we’re all hurting,” said Evatt.
“We’ve all built a relationship with Gethin, obviously, but with Karen, Gareth and the rest of the family.
“He’s under no pressure when to return to work. He needs that time to mourn. His mother was a huge part of the family – the heartbeat of that family.
“There are some things that are more important and bigger than football and that’s certainly one of them.”
Gethin - a key part of Wanderers’ recent revival following his return from injury in January - was made vice-captain of the Whites by Evatt last October.
And the following month, Wanderers hosted a special game between a Legends XI and the current squad to raise funds for the treatment and care of Karen and MND research through the Darby Rimmer Foundation, with over 13,000 fans turning out in support.
“That sent a message to everybody that this club is on its way back and we’re in it together,” added Evatt.
“It was a great event – magical – and it’s a huge shock to everybody what has happened this week.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Gethin and his family.”