Speaking to the press this morning, Steve Bruce has offered updates the availability of EIGHT players ahead of tomorrow night’s clash with Leeds.
The good news is that Joe Willock, Javier Manquillo and Ciaran Clark have shaken off ‘knocks’ picked up in last weekend’s 4-1 defeat at Old Trafford.
Ryan Fraser has also trained and ‘put himself in contention’ to return on Friday night – despite recent injury fears after he was spotted on crutches over the international break.
The not so good news, however, is the game will come too soon for Callum Wilson, Jonjo Shelvey, Paul Dummett and Martin Dubravka.
That said, Bruce insists that Wilson is making good progress from a recent thigh injury, also revealing that Dubravka could be back in training next week after the infection in his foot has cleared up.
Here’s what he’s had to say on all of the above, starting with an update on those who limped off at Old Trafford:
“Everybody has come through last weekend. We had one or two knocks towards the end but thankfully everyone’s OK.
“Unfortunately it’s a bit too soon for Callum Wilson, Jonjo Shelvey and Paul Dummett.”
Bruce on Ryan Fraser:
“He’s trained for the last couple of days and put himself in contention. Thankfully, it wasn’t as bad as we all thought when we saw a picture of him on crutches.”
Bruce on Callum Wilson:
“His recovery is going as well as it can. These things are about time and, unfortunately, Friday comes too quick for him.”
Bruce on Martin Dubravka:
“He’s coming along nicely. Thankfully, the wound that was badly infected has gone. He’s hoping he’ll be back on the grass next week, so that’s a bit of good news.”
Bruce on Paul Dummett:
“He’s had a setback. Just when we thought he was close – and he was back training – he’s uncomfortable again. It’s the same (calf) injury.”
Elsewhere, there was nothing said on Sean Longstaff – who wasn’t spotted in any training photos on Wednesday – so we’ll have to hope he’s OK for tomorrow night.
A bit convenient that Dubravka’s injury is all of a sudden coming along nicely!
Makes the four keepers in the squad seem more of a tactic not to bring anyone in.
Don’t trust this lot!
Joseph(Quote)