Lincoln City manager Michael Skubala revealed significant concerns about injury and illness within the squad ahead of their match against Cambridge United.
The game could potentially see them break a 140-year-old club record, a 14th away game without defeat. They matched that away at Peterborough a fortnight ago and will now attempt to beat the record. However, a flu outbreak has affected several players, including both first-choice and backup goalkeepers, creating uncertainty around team selection for the important fixture.
The Imps may have to achieve this without several key players, including goalkeepers George Wickens and Zack Jeacock. Other members of the squad have also been hit by flu, complicating Skubala’s plans.
In a pre-match interview with BBC Radio Lincolnshire, transcribed by fan site The Stacey West, Skubala said, “We’ve got a few situations at the moment, with some illnesses in the camp. George (Wickens) should be back, but it’s touch and go. Zack (Jeacock) is out with an injury as well, something’s happened there. We’ve got a few things going on, which is why we need the squad’s depth.”
Skubala confirmed that a flu bug has been spreading through the squad, affecting multiple players. Last weekend, midfielder JJ McKiernan, nearly missed the game against Wigan. Although McKiernan was fit enough to play, Skubala now faces a similar challenge with other players potentially missing out due to illness.
“A few lads have caught the flu and haven’t trained this week, so that might impact the bench on Saturday,” Skubala continued. “Dylan (Duffy), unfortunately, is dealing with an injury and is out.
“It feels like we’re getting one player back and another going down with illness, so we’ll assess things again tomorrow and see who’s ready for selection on Saturday.”
With the potential absences in mind, Lincoln could be forced to field a makeshift side for the clash against bottom-of-the-table Cambridge. This adds further difficulty to their goal of breaking the long-standing away record, but there is some positive news for the Imps heading into the game. Key players Ethan Hamilton and Reeco Hackett are nearing a return to full fitness, offering hope for the upcoming fixtures.
“The good news is Hamo (Ethan Hamilton) is training really well and getting closer,” Skubala said. “Reeco (Hackett) is back on the grass with us this week, which is fantastic.”
However, neither will be available for selection tomorrow, but both are believed to be nearing a return to action. When asked about their availability, Skubala said, “It’s probably too early for both of them this week. We’ll have a look at one or two of them next week to see if they can be selected for the squad, but it’s just a bit too soon.
They’re doing really well and progressing, but we don’t want to rush them. The last thing we want is to push them too early and lose them for another eight weeks. They’re getting closer and closer, and training is going well.”
Lincoln have historically performed well against Cambridge United, particularly at their Abbey Stadium. In their last five meetings, Lincoln have won three, drawn one, and lost only once. Last season, the Imps claimed a convincing 3-0 victory at the Abbey, which led to the dismissal of Cambridge manager Mark Bonner.
Writer’s View
Lincoln City’s current injury and illness crisis could not have come at a worse time. With key players, including both goalkeepers, potentially missing, the squad will need to dig deep to extend their unbeaten away run. Michael Skubala’s concerns about squad depth are valid, and any last-minute changes due to illness could leave Lincoln vulnerable against Cambridge, even though they have a strong record at the Abbey Stadium.
However, the imminent return of Ethan Hamilton and Reeco Hackett offers a glimmer of hope for the coming weeks. These players could be vital in maintaining Lincoln’s momentum as they push for a top-six place in the current League One campaign. The team must navigate this difficult period with resilience, knowing that each point is crucial in their pursuit of success this season.
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