Notts County suffer big player blow in quest for League Two promotion - it adds to Jodi Jones problem | OneFootball

Notts County boss Martin Paterson has provided injury updates on captain Matty Palmer and Jodi Jones.

Notts County captain Matty Palmer is set for ‘quite a period’ out injured after he suffered a knee injury, whilst the club also have concerns over Jodi Jones as he continues to recover from his own knee issue.

Martin Paterson’s side have enjoyed a decent League Two campaign so far, with the Midlands outfit sitting fifth in the table, and they’re just two points away from the automatic promotion places.

Therefore, a return to the third tier looks like a real possibility, and there’s no doubt that will be the aim for Notts County.

Notts County suffer Matty Palmer injury blow ahead of busy December period

However, the 3-1 loss against Colchester last weekend was a disappointment, and it came at a further cost, as Palmer was forced off in the second half with a knee injury.

The club have been assessing the midfielder since, and Paterson provided a worrying update to BBC Nottingham Sport ahead of Saturday’s game at Bristol Rovers.

Whilst the boss didn’t offer a definitive timeframe on when Palmer will return, it doesn’t appear it will be any time soon, as it was confirmed that the skipper is set for ‘quite a period’ on the sidelines.

Elsewhere, there was more bad news for Notts County when it comes to Jones, who hasn’t played for the Magpies since the start of November.

Paterson has revealed that the 28-year-old has an ‘irritation’ behind his knee that has hindered the ex-Coventry man, and he still has that issue.

Notts County squad need to step up as they look to build momentum in promotion race

This is obviously a big blow for Notts County, as Palmer is not only an influential figure on the pitch, but he brings leadership qualities that help the group.

So, news of a potentially lengthy lay-off is a major concern, and it will frustrate both Palmer and Paterson that it has come at such a crucial part of the season.

But, these things happen in football, and it’s now about Paterson utilising other members of the squad, and they need to step up and take the opportunity that will come their way.

It’s a similar story with Jones, who you have huge sympathy for considering his injury history, but Notts County have a decent squad, and they should still have enough quality in the ranks to pick up results on a consistent basis as they prepare for a massive December that can have a big say in the promotion race.

Next up is a trip to the Memorial Stadium on Saturday, and Notts County will fancy their chances considering Bristol Rovers have lost seven games on the bounce in League Two.