Town have confirmed that skipper Jim Magilton will miss Saturday's season opener with Gillingham. The midfielder sustained a slight tear to his thigh muscle during the 2-1 friendly win against Newcastle.
Boos Joe Royle told the club site: "As we thought, Jim hasn't made it.
"Jason trained OK though, and he, Kevin Horlock and Matt Richards will all be fine for Saturday, with Jason skippering the side."