Lincoln City travel to Crawley Town tomorrow in a bid to reach the FA Cup third round for the first time since their 2018/19 trip to Everton.
The Imps are seeking to avenge their 3-0 defeat to Crawley earlier this season while managing a tight schedule and a spate of injuries. Manager Michael Skubala provided injury updates on several key players ahead of the match.
The hectic Saturday-Tuesday fixture list has taken a toll on fitness levels, but news of returning players offers hope. Despite carrying a few knocks from Tuesday’s loss to Wrexham, Skubala remains optimistic about his squad’s depth.
Key Players Returning to Action
Reeco Hackett and Tyler Walker are both inching closer to full fitness, according to Skubala. Hackett has been sidelined since the international break, while Walker has made just one appearance since his injury in September 2023.
“Reeco is back on the grass with the team today. Tyler is back with the team fully, but probably a bit further off than Reeco. Still going to have to be with us for quite a few weeks before he’s fully back in, and the rest is the same,” Skubala said.
The game could also see the return of top scorer Ben House, who missed the Wrexham defeat due to suspension but is now battling an illness sweeping through the squad. Skubala confirmed House’s status remains uncertain: “He’s ill. Not an injury, but illness as well.”
Defensive Options and Challenges
Lincoln’s defence continues to grapple with injuries. Tendayi Darikwa filled in on the right side against Wrexham, with Lewis Montsma and Tom Hamer unavailable. Adam Jackson returned to the bench but may not yet be ready to start. Skubala hinted that Jackson’s recovery is progressing steadily.
“(He is) a bit short still for a start, but we’ll see. We’re still trying to work him back over the next couple of weeks.”
The clash with Crawley offers the Imps a chance for revenge and progression in the FA Cup. Crawley, buoyed by their earlier win over Lincoln, have found form and climbed out of the bottom four in recent weeks. Results against Huddersfield and Rotherham underline the challenge Lincoln will face at Broadfield Stadium.
Writer’s View
Lincoln City’s FA Cup journey hangs in the balance as they prepare for a demanding test at Crawley. While the return of key players like Hackett and Jackson is encouraging, illness and injuries remain a concern. Revenge for their earlier defeat could spur the Imps, but Crawley’s resurgence makes this a tough encounter. A win would not only advance Lincoln to the coveted third round but also provide a morale boost ahead of their relentless fixture schedule.
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