It’s certainly been a slow one today so how’s about a round-up of the little knocks and scrapes doing the rounds right now…
First up there’s the current scare involving Rio Ferdinand’s creaky back. The United man is out of England’s clash with Andorra tomorrow but is expected to be fit for the Croatia game on Wednesday. Long term though, this back problem just won’t go away for Rio. He suffered in pre-season and although he’s yet to miss a game for United, I can’t help thinking that Vidic is a better bet for your fantasy money with this injury hanging over Rio.
Elsewhere there’s an update on Arsenal’s Amaury Bischoff over on their official site which states that the Portuguese international is still several weeks from a return to training. He’s been carrying a groin injury since he joined the club.
Villa’s Steve Sidwell is targeting a return for Villa at White Hart Lane next weekend after turning out for the reserves for 45 minutes in the week. He’ll appear for the stiffs again on Monday as he continues to boost his chances of being in the reckoning for a recall. I can’t see him getting beyond the bench against Spurs however.
Boro’s Mido is a doubt for Egypt’s World Cup Qualifier with DR Congo after suffering a hamstring injury in training. He joins team mate and compatriot Shawky on the sidelines after he picked up a groin injury earlier this week.
Wigan’s Jason Koumas has shrugged off an ankle problem to be in contention for Wales against Azerbaijan. Wigan team mate, Kevin Kilbane is also set to start international action this weekend after undergoing successful surgery on a his fractured cheek bone. Kilbane could win his 89th cap for the Republic thanks to a protective mask.
Meanwhile David Moyes has handed us a huge hint that he will rest James Vaughan next weekend. Vaughan made the starting lineup against Portsmouth but Moyes has expressed his concerns that he may well have pushed him into action too soon after the player had been out with a knee injury. I can see a return to 4-5-1 for the Stoke game.
Finally, Julio Arca has spoken of his ambitions to be fit for Boro’s clash with his former club Sunderland on September 27. Arca is currently recovering from a ankle injury.
As always I’ll keep you up to date with all the injuries and player availability news via the injuries and bans table.