Eddie Howe has confirmed that Sean Longstaff will miss tomorrow’s trip to Leeds United.
Speaking to the press just moments ago, the boss has revealed that Tuesday’s visit to see a specialist showed no structural damage in his foot, but there is some damage to his ligaments.
The midfielder will be scanned again today and it’s hoped he’ll play again this season. Either way, Howe insists it is NOT a ‘long-term’ injury.
On the flip side, Matt Ritchie may have played his last game for the club, as he’s been ruled out for our final four games with a knee injury. He was unlikely to feature, but will sit out tomorrow’s game and the remainder of the season alongside Jamaal Lascelles (calf), Emil Krafth (ACL) and Ryan Fraser (training with our U21s).
The good news is Miguel Almiron is back to full fitness and could start. Joelinton is also training and ready to play after shrugging off an ankle injury what forced him off in last Sunday’s 2-0 defeat to Arsenal. Howe also talked up Alexander Isak’s ability to play wide, saying he’ll “definitely consider” starting the Swede in the same side as Callum Wilson, despite the pair struggling to link up last weekend.
Here’s what Howe had to say on all of the above, starting with his update on Longstaff’s injury…
Howe on Sean Longstaff:
“He went to see a specialist and I think there was a few concerns that there’s some structural damage in his foot but there wasn’t which is good news. There is a bit of damage to one of the ligaments. He’s being re-scanned today which we hope will show an improvement. It’s unclear when he’ll be back but it’s not a long term issue.
“We’ve missed him a lot. I’ve always said he goes under the radar in terms of what he gives the team tactically, technically an physically. He’s a high level player, but we have to adapt when someone is missing.”
Howe on Matt Ritchie:
“Matt has picked up a knee injury. I don’t think it’s too bad but I think it will keep him out for the rest of the season.”
Howe on Miguel Almiron’s fitness:
“He’s a lot closer now (to full fitness). Miggy was out for a period of time and for a player like him that bases himself on his physical endurance, he needed time to get that back. I’d say he’s pretty much 100% fit now.“
Howe on Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson:
“They were on the pitch together but they weren’t a partnership as such. I saw enough from Alex, who played well I thought, to know he can play in that position and I know Callum in the number nine role is an outstanding player so it [playing both together] is something I’ll definitely consider.”
Howe on tomorrow’s trip to Leeds:
“We’re looking forward to it. We know it’s going to be a great occasion and a great atmosphere. We need to be ready for what’s going to come. It’s going to be a really important start to the game. I think the first 15/20 minutes will have a huge impact on what’s going to happen afterwards.”
