Bradford City v Cheltenham Town - Fresh injury blow for Bantams as Reece Staunton sidelined
Scans have revealed the 18-year-old suffered a “high-grade hamstring tear” against Leyton Orient last week.
It only adds to the problems facing manager Stuart McCall ahead of tonight’s League Two visit of Cheltenham Town.
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Hide AdThe Bantams have not won since beating non-league Tonbridge Angels 7-0 in the FA Cup first round. Their second-round loss at home to Oldham Athletic on Sunday was a fourth in five matches, and McCall said afterwards that “every part of our game was really poor.”
Staunton has been one of the big plus points of a grim season at Valley Parade, making 14 appearances. His first goal in professional football earned City their only point since November 3, in the 2-2 draw with Exeter City.
This month he was rewarded for his form with a new contract but he will not play again for at least 12 weeks. Staunton travelled to London yesterday to see a specialist.
“We are all first and foremost disappointed to have lost Reece for so long, but of course gutted for the lad himself,” said McCall.
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Hide Ad“He has made an impressive start to the season and, at just 18 years old, has fit into our side seamlessly, making a good transition into professional football.
“We all wish him the very best with his recovery and will be with him every step of the way.”
Cheltenham are second in the League Two table, unbeaten in six matches, and in the FA Cup third round.
Last six games: Bradford City LLLDLW, Cheltenham Town DDWWWW
Referee: S Stockbridge (Tyne and Wear)
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Hide AdLast time: Bradford City 1 Cheltenham Town 1, January 28, 2020, League Two.
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