Eustace gives encouraging update on Derby defender | OneFootball

Derby County boss John Eustace has provided an update on Matt Clarke after the defender’s recent injury.

The 29-year-old was placed in a precautionary boot after the injury in County’s Carabao Cup defeat to Lincoln to ensure there was no further damage.

He was spotted outside a hospital earlier this week, but Eustace confirmed that was due to his wife giving birth.

“Obviously, a huge congratulations to Clarkey yesterday. He had a newborn with his wife which is fantastic, so that’s what he was doing at the hospital,” Eustace said.

“Obviously, he came off on Saturday, and he had a precautionary boot on to make sure everything’s OK, so let’s just wait and see on him.”

Eustace revealed Clarke could return as soon as this weekend, although the Derby boss admitted the defender could also require another week to recover.

“He’s got a boot on his foot. It’s precautionary, so he could be ready for Saturday, he could be ready for next Saturday,” he added.

“I don’t know the full details yet, but all I know is that he’s a top player.

“He’s been a great player for us over the last 18 months, and the sooner he plays for us, the better.”