Ryan Barnett hurt his ankle against Tranmere Rovers on the weekend, and Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson is worried about his return to the field.
Since the Welsh team’s return to League Two, they have had a string of unfortunate injuries, and Barnett may now have to miss some time. After sustaining a strong tackle against Tranmere Rovers the previous Saturday, the 24-year-old persevered but ultimately couldn’t go on.
In addition to acknowledging that the damage is more severe than that of his teammate Tom O’Connor, who is anticipated to recover this weekend, Parkinson thought the tackle was risky.
After a scan, the former Shrewsbury Town player will know later this week how much damage has been done. The Wrexham manager discussed the subject with The Leader.
“I felt it was a risky challenge on Barney; he carried on for a while but had to come off in the end in the second half. Barney is a little more serious.”
“We simply hope to hear positive news about the foot scan we had him do yesterday. We’re really praying it’s just a seriously bruised foot, but we’ll find out more later this week.
This marks Barnett’s second injury of the year; in October and December of last year, he missed two months of play due to knee ligament damage. Starting the last six games, he has established himself as a staple in the squad.
Luke Bolton, a January acquisition who has struggled to make the team since joining, may have an opportunity to see some action as a result of the injury. The 24-year-old has only ever made one game start.
There are currently no indications that Barnett will be included in the matchday squad for Wrexham’s trip to Grimsby Town on Saturday.
Author’s Perspective
The Welsh squad has been playing well in League Two this season thanks to the former Solihull Moors winger. An injury at such a crucial time will hurt the team’s chances of maintaining their present third-place standing and push for automatic promotion.
Bolton was a key member of Salford prior to his January transfer, so if he is selected to start the match this weekend, he will see it as an opportunity to establish his credentials and attempt to secure a starting position in the games that remain.
