It’s a case of the walking wounded at Newcastle Jets training in Round 9, following their last-start win over Melbourne Victory at McDonald Jones Stadium.
Currently, a total of seven squad members are unavailable for the club’s upcoming clash with Melbourne City – as a range of short and long-term injuries test the club’s depth as the grind of the Hyundai A-League season takes it toll.
Jets’ boss, Ernie Merrick said his current casualty ward was the result of the changing fortunes that football can ultimately bring.
“These are all injuries caused by trauma as opposed to being an issue of overuse,” said Merrick.
“Over the course of season injuries are bound to happen, we just need to ensure we have the depth to cover them in key positions.
“Justin Dougherty (Physio) and Chris Smith (Strength and Conditioning Coach) have done an exceptional job so far this season to have the boys in peak condition – but both certainly have their hands full now.
“At this stage, of the players that are injured, Jason Hoffman is the only one pushing for selection this weekend.
“Periods like this during the season provide a great opportunity for our younger players to step into the first team and make an impact.
“Everyone across the squad is aware of the way we want to play, and I’m confident that whoever we put on the park can do the job for us against City.”
The Jets current list of injured players:
Jake Adelson (knee, season) – The young defender suffered his third ruptured ACL in the Jets 1 – 1 draw with Sydney FC in Round 2 of the Foxtel National Youth League.
Jason Hoffman (groin, 1 week) – Suffered a minor groin strain in the Jets’ 4 – 1 win over Victory, but has recovered well and is a chance to take the pitch this weekend.
Daniel Georgievski (knee, 2 – 3 weeks) – Amidst a standout performance against his former club, the defender suffered a Grade 1 MCL tear following a awkward collision with Leroy George.
Roy O’Donovan (groin, 2 weeks) – Continuing to recover from a minor groin strain, which saw him a late scratching in our Round 7 clash with Sydney FC.
Jack Duncan (foot, 6 weeks) – The young custodian suffered an unusual injury, damaging ligaments in his foot during our Round 7 clash with Sydney FC.
Wayne Brown (calf, TBC) – A lingering issue for the Englishman has seen him unavailable for the last few weeks, as he works his way back to full fitness.
Ronald Vargas (ankle, TBC) – Our marquee import is progressing well through his recovery and a more detailed update will be provided when information comes to hand after he is reviewed by the surgeon later this week.
