Huddersfield Town manager Michael Duff has confirmed that striker Rhys Healey is likely to make a return to the squad for their League One clash with Crawley Town.
The forward, who has been sidelined for much of the season and has only made five appearances, could play a key role as Town look to recover from a recent FA Cup upset.
Healey has been used sparingly as a second-half substitute in recent league matches against Wrexham and Exeter City, and was absent from the squad during last week’s FA Cup defeat to non-league Tamworth. With Huddersfield needing an attacking lift, Duff has confirmed that Healey is “back in the fold” and available for selection on Saturday.
Defensive and Midfield Injuries Loom for Huddersfield
In addition to Healey, winger Josh Koroma and defender Michal Helik have also been deemed fit enough to be included in the squad, though neither has seen significant match time recently. Koroma, who was an unused substitute during the Tamworth fixture, has reportedly benefited from a week of full training, while Helik is making his way back after a hamstring issue.
Despite the positive news on the attacking front, Huddersfield faces potential gaps in midfield, with key players Jonathan Hogg and Antony Evans both doubtful for the Crawley match. Duff revealed that Hogg, who had returned to training, experienced discomfort in his knee, casting uncertainty over his availability. Evans is also likely to miss out, having bruised his toe in training.
“Hoggy was back training but felt his knee, so I’m not sure he’ll be available,” Duff said. “Antony Evans has bruised his toe, so he probably won’t be available either.”
Defeat to Tamworth Spurs Duff to Focus on Recovery
Huddersfield’s unexpected FA Cup exit at the hands of Tamworth has added pressure to this weekend’s fixture, with fans and players alike looking for a convincing response. Duff, however, indicated that his squad selection against Crawley would not be a reactionary one, despite last week’s setback.
“I won’t be picking a team to try and prove a point from last week,” Duff explained. “We’ve got to draw a line under it now and move forward, so we’ll pick the best team that we think can go and win the game.”
Huddersfield will be eager to put their disappointing FA Cup result behind them and push for three crucial points against Crawley. With Healey’s potential return and the reintegration of Koroma and Helik, the Terriers are looking to field a stronger lineup in hopes of revitalising their campaign.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
