On-loan Wigan frontman Callum Lang is set for three months on the sidelines after picking up a metatarsal injury in Shrewsbury Town’s 1-0 win over Tranmere Rovers eleven days ago.
The twenty-one-year-old underwent surgery yesterday after advice from a specialist and will be out of action until 2020.
The young striker had been in good form before the set-back, having scored one goal in five League One appearances for the Shrews following his deadline day, season-long loan to the Montgomery Waters Meadow Stadium.
Speaking to the Shropshire Star ahead of Shrewsbury’s visit to Lincoln City on Friday night, boss Sam Ricketts admitted Lang’s absence would be a big blow for his side but also gave other forwards an opportunity to shine. He said: ‘Langy has started really well for us and has been a great addition to the squad.’
‘It is a real disappointment for Langy, and for us, that he will be out of action for a while.’
‘We will give him all the support and help to make sure that he comes back stronger from this setback.’
‘We have really good options in the forward line, and this will give someone else a chance to step up.’
Ricketts does have several attacking options at his disposal including former Imp Lenell John-Lewis who is currently on his way back from an ACL injury and former Millwall striker Steve Morison who’s sat out the last four matchday squads.
Shrewsbury are currently level on points with Lincoln having played two games less than the Imps. Both sides are in comfortable mid-table and will be looking kick on in the clash under the Sincil Bank lights.
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Lang has impressed the Shrews faithful with his effort and determination since arriving at the New Meadow.
He will be a big miss but with last season’s leading scorer Fejiri Okenabirhie recently making a goal-scoring return to action after injury, Ricketts does have strength in depth to call on.
With only ten league goals so far, Ricketts will be hoping to find a decent combination to face a Lincoln side that, apart from a massive blip against Oxford, have been especially miserly at home this season.
