Exeter City Updates Injury Status Ahead of FA Cup Clash

Exeter City is preparing for its FA Cup fixture against Halifax Town on March 16, 2024, with injuries still impacting the squad. Although the injury list is decreasing, none of the currently sidelined players are expected to return for this weekend’s match.

In a positive development, Sil Swinkels made his comeback following a two-month absence due to a knee injury. He played 55 minutes during the club’s thrilling 4-3 victory over Arsenal Under-21s in the Vertu Trophy on March 12, 2024. Manager Gary Caldwell confirmed that Swinkels came through the match without any setbacks.

The team will face a logistical challenge with a long journey to Yorkshire on Friday, prompting a staggered training schedule. While Johnly Yfeko has returned to full training, Caldwell indicated that it is too soon for him to feature against Halifax. However, there is hope he may be ready for the following week’s League One match at home against Wigan Athletic.

Looking at the longer-term injuries, players such as Sonny Cox, Jake Doyle-Hayes, and Ryan Rydel are making progress but will remain unavailable for several weeks. Caldwell noted, “Sonny is out on the grass, Jake Doyle-Hayes is progressing after an injection in his ankle, and Ryan has received injections in his hamstring.” Meanwhile, Carlos Mendes Gomes is set to return to Cliff Hill next week after completing the first stage of his rehabilitation at Bolton Wanderers.

Caldwell emphasized the opportunity for squad members still on the sidelines to showcase their skills. One player who has capitalized on that opportunity is Liam Oakes. In his first start of the season, Oakes delivered an impressive performance against Arsenal, earning praise from assistant manager Kevin Nicholson.

“He was outstanding,” Nicholson remarked. “He has trained brilliantly for weeks and was in a position where he was hard to ignore. When he plays, he never shies away, and that mentality is what we need from all of our players.”

Nicholson highlighted Oakes’ dedication in training as a critical factor in his selection for the match. “Every game is an opportunity, and when on the pitch, you have the chance to show you deserve more time on it.”

As Exeter City prepares for the FA Cup clash, the focus will be on maintaining momentum and utilizing the depth of the squad. The team aims to build on its recent success, demonstrating resilience and the ability to adapt despite the ongoing injury challenges.