Concerns for Mansfield Town as Joe Riley picks up long-term injury

Mansfield Town manager Graham Coughlan confirmed that right-back Joe Riley will be out for six to eight months.

Mansfield Town were defeated 2-0 by League One outfit Peterborough United in a game behind closed doors which saw the teams go head to head for two 60 minute games.

After the match, Coughlan confirmed and addressed the worst which was that Joe Riley suffered an ACL injury in training.

“Joe [Riley], unfortunately, it’s a really tough one to take – he did his ACL in training last week, with no-one near him.

“Joe was looking good and was flying in pre-season. It’s testament to the man that he came in Monday morning on crutches, and they were all consoling him and looking after him.

“But he’s picking us up – he’s telling us to just get on with it and that’s a proper pro’. I really feel for the kid to be honest with you, because nobody deserves that luck.

“An ACL injury nowadays – you’re looking at around six to eight months. Normally they’re 12 month jobs but with the expertise and the knowledge nowadays, you’re probably talking six to eight months.

“We’ll have a sit down as staff and we’ll see what the best course of action is [in terms of looking in the transfer market].”

Danny Rose and Ollie Clarke were also not involved in the two 60 minute games, Coughlan confirmed that both of them were also carrying small niggles and did not want to risk them.

“Danny [Rose] reported a tight hip flexor over the weekend. It’s the same with Ollie Clarke – I’m not going to put them out if there is any type of niggle. Danny and Ollie were omitted today – Ollie had a bit of tightness in his calf.

“I wasn’t going to chance them if they’re not 100 per cent. I want them all right and ready for September 12.

“You’ll probably see Danny and Ollie soon – it’s nothing to be stressed or worried about. I possibly could have used both of them today, but it wasn’t worth the risk.”

 

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