Football League World
·29 September 2022
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·29 September 2022
Reading centre-back Naby Sarr is facing several weeks out following a setback in his quest to recover from a calf injury, according to this morning’s report from Berkshire Live.
The 29-year-old has made just one appearances since his summer move, previously looking as though he would be joining in July but being prevented from linking up with the Royals at that point with George Puscas needing to be moved on first.
He was finally confirmed as a Reading player during the latter stages of August and made his debut shortly after at Millwall, scoring the winning goal at The Den as he got off to a perfect start to life at the club.
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However, he sustained an injury in their midweek game against Sheffield United after that, being withdrawn at half-time and ruled out of action until the international break which was a real blow for the Berkshire outfit.
Manager Paul Ince was previously hopeful of having the Senegalese defender back in action for tomorrow’s clash against his former club Huddersfield, but he looks set to be on the sidelines for an extended period, meaning he will miss this reunion with the Terriers.
The Royals go into this game looking to retain their place in the top six, though they will have to cope without the 29-year-old.
The Verdict:
This is very frustrating for the second-tier side considering how hopeful they were of having him back fit and available for this game, with his arrival providing more depth, experience and quality in central defence.
This added experience was vital considering how poor the Royals were defensively last season, with Tom Holmes and Tom McIntyre needing to be pushed hard for their starting spots.
That competition would have only helped to boost their performance levels, not just helping themselves but their side in general with the club desperate to remain afloat in the division beyond this term.
They may have Sam Hutchinson available – but his fitness record has been questionable throughout his career and this is why having Sarr back would have been such a boost for the Berkshire outfit.
Michael Hector is training with them at this stage though and if he joins, he could be a decent figure at the back, even if he’s a right-footer. With Liam Moore and Scott Dann also out, they need all the central defenders they can get.
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