Peterborough United’s battle to avoid relegation from League One has been dealt a major blow, with manager Darren Ferguson confirming a trio of season-ending injuries.
Midfield lynchpin Archie Collins, winger Cian Hayes and youngster Mo Susoho have all been ruled out for the remainder of the campaign. Collins sustained a deep leg cut and Hayes damaged his knee ligaments during Friday’s 1-1 draw against Stockport County at Weston Homes Stadium, while Susoho picked up an ankle ligament injury in training.
“This is why I constantly bang on about everyone in the squad being ready to play,” Ferguson said. “We were always likely to need everyone in the last few games. Archie, Cian and Mo won’t play again this season and there could be one or two others missing as well, but whenever
“I’ve had to call players up their attitude has been right and the advantage some will have is a freshness which can be a big advantage at this time of the season.”
Further concerns linger with a couple of unnamed players carrying knocks, making them unlikely to feature in Monday’s crucial trip to Barnsley. However, there is some relief as defender Jadel Katongo returns from illness and centre-back Sam Hughes is available again after being ineligible against Stockport.
Barnsley pose a tough test for Posh, especially after an impressive 4-1 victory over Bolton Wanderers before a narrow 4-3 defeat at Leyton Orient on Good Friday. Under the permanent management of Conor Hourihane, the Tykes have switched to a back four and look revitalised.
Ferguson knows his side must be far sharper in transition to cope with the threat.
“They’ve started scoring goals and there is no doubt they are a real threat attacking wise and they have good players in midfield,” he added. “The new manager appears to have given them energy and if they play the same way against us we will need to be very good in transition which wasn’t the case on Saturday.”
Posh still have a healthy goal difference in their favour and could secure safety if they match Bristol Rovers’ result against Stevenage on Easter Monday.
Writer’s View
Peterborough’s injury crisis could not have come at a worse time. With key players like Collins and Hayes missing, the squad’s depth will be severely tested. Ferguson’s faith in the squad’s readiness is encouraging, but against a revitalised Barnsley side, Posh must show resilience and tactical sharpness to avoid being dragged deeper into trouble.
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