Wigan Athletic fear defender Isaac Mabaya could face a lengthy spell out after being stretchered off during his first start for the club.
The Liverpool loanee lasted just 20 minutes of the Carabao Cup tie against Notts County before suffering what appeared to be a serious lower limb injury.
Injury blow for Mabaya as Wigan await Liverpool decision
Mabaya’s full debut for Wigan ended in disappointment as the 20-year-old was forced off less than half an hour into Tuesday’s 2–0 win over Notts County. The young defender, who only joined Latics on loan from Liverpool earlier this month, went down and was immediately surrounded by medical staff.
Latics boss Ryan Lowe confirmed after the game that Mabaya had left the ground in a protective boot and admitted the signs were concerning.
“He’s in a boot at the moment,” Lowe said. “I don’t really know right now… I’m just gutted for the kid, he’s a fantastic lad, a great human being… we thought this might be the year for him – both ourselves and Liverpool thought that. But it doesn’t look good.”
Mabaya has been highly regarded at Anfield and previously represented England at youth level, though he was also called up to the senior Zimbabwe squad two years ago. His spell at Wigan was seen as a crucial opportunity to gain regular senior experience and prove himself under a manager who has tracked his progress for years.
Lowe, who previously worked with Mabaya during his time at Preston North End, had hoped to ease the youngster into League One action.
“We gave him that opportunity tonight, and lo and behold it hasn’t worked out. He has to come off the pitch after 20 minutes… it’s disappointing for him and for us.”
The Wigan manager confirmed the club will liaise closely with Liverpool in the coming days to decide on the best course of action.
“Knowing his injury record, and what he’s done, he’ll probably go back to Liverpool and let them address the situation from there,” Lowe added. “Our medical staff will speak to theirs, and Gregor [Ricoh] will speak to their hierarchy.”
Before the injury, Mabaya had spoken positively about his move to the DW Stadium and his belief that Lowe’s playing style could help take his career to the next level.
Writer’s View
This is a cruel setback for Isaac Mabaya, whose loan move to Wigan looked like an ideal platform to relaunch his development after a frustrating period at Liverpool. Ryan Lowe’s comments highlight the personal disappointment as much as the professional blow, particularly given the effort made to bring him in.
With his injury history already a concern, this latest problem may see Liverpool take a cautious approach, possibly cutting the loan short altogether. For Wigan, it’s a frustrating early disruption to their defensive plans, and it may force them back into the market before the transfer window closes.
