Lincoln City manager Michael Skubala has expressed concerns about injuries and illness within the squad as they prepare to face Cambridge United, with key players potentially sidelined.
The Imps are on the verge of making club history with a 14th consecutive away game without defeat, a feat which would break a 140-year-old record. However, an outbreak of flu, affecting several players including both first-choice goalkeeper George Wickens and backup Zack Jeacock, has thrown preparations into uncertainty for the crucial fixture.
The team’s illness and injury woes come at a pivotal moment, as Lincoln aim to beat the away unbeaten record they equaled against Peterborough two weeks ago. Speaking to BBC Radio Lincolnshire ahead of the game, Skubala revealed, “We’ve got a few situations at the moment, with some illnesses in the camp. George (Wickens) should be back, but it’s touch and go. Zack (Jeacock) is out with an injury as well, something’s happened there. We’ve got a few things going on, which is why we need the squad’s depth.”
Skubala explained that a flu bug has been circulating among the squad, making team selection more difficult. Last week, midfielder JJ McKiernan was almost ruled out against Wigan due to illness, and the flu’s spread may impact more players in the upcoming match.
“A few lads have caught the flu and haven’t trained this week, so that might impact the bench on Saturday,” Skubala added. “Dylan (Duffy), unfortunately, is dealing with an injury and is out. It feels like we’re getting one player back and another going down with illness, so we’ll assess things again tomorrow and see who’s ready for selection on Saturday.”
The combination of injuries and illness means Lincoln may have to rely on a makeshift lineup to extend their unbeaten away run. This puts additional pressure on the team as they prepare for the bottom-of-the-table clash with Cambridge United, but there is some positive news. Skubala confirmed that key players Ethan Hamilton and Reeco Hackett are nearing a return to full fitness, though they won’t be available for the Cambridge game.
“The good news is Hamo (Ethan Hamilton) is training really well and getting closer,” Skubala noted. “Reeco (Hackett) is back on the grass with us this week, which is fantastic.”
Despite their progress, neither player is expected to feature in the match. Skubala cautioned against rushing their return, explaining, “It’s probably too early for both of them this week. We’ll have a look at one or two of them next week to see if they can be selected for the squad, but it’s just a bit too soon. They’re doing really well and progressing, but we don’t want to rush them. The last thing we want is to push them too early and lose them for another eight weeks.”
Lincoln have historically enjoyed success against Cambridge United, especially at the Abbey Stadium. In the last five meetings between the sides, Lincoln have secured three wins, one draw, and just one defeat. Their last visit to Cambridge ended in a dominant 3-0 win, a result that led to the dismissal of Cambridge manager Mark Bonner.
Our View
Lincoln City’s battle with injuries and illness couldn’t come at a more challenging time, as they aim to break a club record for away games without defeat. With both goalkeepers potentially missing and other key players recovering from illness, the squad’s depth will be severely tested. Skubala’s concerns about player fitness and availability are valid, and any last-minute absences could disrupt their plans against Cambridge, despite their strong form at the Abbey Stadium.
However, the potential returns of Ethan Hamilton and Reeco Hackett in the coming weeks provide a glimmer of hope. Their presence will be key in Lincoln’s push for a strong finish to the season, and their fitness could make a significant difference as the team competes for a top-six place in League One. For now, Lincoln must navigate through this tough period with resilience, knowing that each point is vital for their continued success.
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