Coventry City were heartened at the weekend by the return of important midfielder Jamie Allen to the matchday squad, despite the fact that the 28-year-old did not play against Reading.
Fortunately for Sky Blues manager Mark Robins, he didn’t need to call on the dynamic attacking midfielder, who has recovered sufficiently from a seriously bruised ankle suffered at Swansea on Good Friday, which was first thought to be serious enough to keep him out for the rest of the season.
However, after a scan, anticipated ligament injury was revised to severe bruising, and Allen is back for the last drive for the play-offs, with another week to recover ahead of Saturday’s derby with Birmingham City.
However, just as Allen has returned, Ben Sheaf has been ruled out of the matchday squad after suffering a calf injury at Blackburn last midweek, and centre-half Kyle McFadzean suffered a blow to the head against Reading at a time when second choice goalkeeper Simon Moore has been sidelined with a finger injury for the last four games.
Here’s a list of the walking wounded, as well as when we may anticipate them to return to service…
Kyle McFadzean
Injury: Gash to head
What we know: The hard-man centre-half suffered a clash of heads within minutes of going on as a second half substitute against Reading.
What’s been said: “The first thing he did was get fouled and I thought he’d have to come off again but thankfully he was OK to carry on and get ready for this week,” said Robins, who confirmed the defender suffered a cut to his head.
“I think it’s a cut, yes. I was more concerned that they put the bandage over his eyes, but he saw the ball well enough.”
Simon Moore
Injury: Bruised finger
What we know: The experienced stopper has been virtually ever present as back-up to Ben Wilson after losing his place as City’s No.1 at the start of the season. But he was conspicuous by his absence from the teamsheet against Watford on Easter Monday, having suffered an injury in training.
What’s been said: “Simon got a knock on his little finger which is sticking out sideways anyway,” revealed Robins.
The manager later revealed it’s badly bruised and last week said he’s be out for a further week to ten days, meaning he should be available for this weekend’s match with Blues.
Ben Sheaf
Injury: Calf
What we know: The influential central midfielder has only recently returned from a spell out with a calf tear and been enjoying fine form. However, the 25-year-old suffered a similar issue in his other calf at Blackburn Rovers, forcing him off at half-time.
What’s been said: “He’s got a calf tear so he’s going to be out for the best part of a month,” revealed Robins when asked about the player’s latest scan results. “It beggars belief because we’ve had key players pick up injuries all season.”
Should City make the play-offs, Sheaf could well be available at some stage given that the first legs kick off in three weeks’ time and the final is not until May 27.
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