Injury update

As preparations for Saturday’s Sports Direct Premiership fixture with Ballymena United continue, Jim Magilton has provided an update on a number of injury-enforced absentees in the Cliftonville squad.

With international commitments also ruling both Conor Barr and Joe Sheridan out of recent matches, Magilton has been effusive in his praise for the players who have stepped into the side to deliver a three-game winning streak comprising victories over Glenavon, Crusaders and Carrick Rangers.

He is, however, hopeful of seeing some light at the end of the tunnel on the injury front, with Ryan Corrigan – who has not featured since the UEFA Conference League first qualifying round tie with St Joseph’s – nearing a return to fitness.

“We’ve picked up quite a few injuries in the opening month of the season and it’s been a real test of the squad’s depth and versatility but, credit to the players, they’ve recognised the opportunities that are there and we’ve had lads who have stepped in to stake a claim,” explained Magilton.

“We obviously lost Rhyss Campbell very early on and, as everyone knows with ACL injuries, there’s quite a lengthy recovery period associated with that, so we as a Club will support him all the way on that one because that’s a really horrible injury to pick up at any time, nevermind when you’ve just joined a new team and are looking forward to a fresh start.

“Luke Conlan’s groin injury is another one that we’ll have to be patient with and work with him on and, again, he’s a big loss not just because of his ability on the field but also the level of experience he brings with him.”

Two loanees have also returned to their parent Clubs for assessment after sustaining injuries over the course of the past week, with Tom Lavery reporting back to Sunderland with a foot complaint, while Darien Wauchope’s thigh issue is being monitored by Mansfield Town.

“Both Tommy and Darien have come in and made good starts with us,” added Magilton.

“Tommy had a foot injury last week that we obviously need to be careful with and can’t take a chance on, and Darien felt his thigh go during the first-half of the game with Crusaders. They could both be out for a few weeks but, as we always say, it’s a case of the squad having to step up.

“We’ve been down bodies all season long but we’ve added some new faces and are hopeful of having one or two available again soon.”