Lincoln City fans received an encouraging update on Sonny Bradley after Saturday’s 2-1 cup victory against Derby County, with Chris Cohen confirming the experienced defender is facing weeks on the sidelines rather than months.
Bradley missed the win against his former club through injury, having been an important part of the side that won the League One title last season. His absence could easily have left City looking light at the back, but Deji Elerewe stepped into the side and produced arguably his best performance since arriving at Sincil Bank.
The former Bromley defender was named man of the match by Stacey West readers as City knocked Derby out, putting in an assured display at the heart of the defence. Elerewe only made ten league appearances during last season’s promotion campaign, but his first competitive opportunity of 2026/27 suggested he is ready to play a bigger role when required.
There had naturally been some concern around Bradley given his importance and experience, but Cohen’s update after the game was relatively positive.
“I think I said it prior to a game at some point. It’s weeks, not months. So yeah, he just again adds to the squad.
“It’s lovely for Deji to get his opportunity today. But having Sonny back in our squad will boost us as well.”
Bradley brings a significant amount of Championship experience to the squad, most notably from his five years with Luton Town. He also spent two seasons with Derby before joining City in 2025, and went on to play 45 league matches during our title-winning campaign.
That makes the prospect of losing him for a prolonged period an uncomfortable one, particularly at the start of City’s first Championship season in 65 years. Cohen’s assessment therefore offers some reassurance that this is an absence City should be able to manage rather than one which fundamentally alters their defensive plans.
Elerewe’s display helps enormously in that respect. The 22-year-old arrived from Bromley last summer having already accumulated plenty of senior football despite his age, including spells with Charlton Athletic and Wealdstone. Opportunities were limited during the title-winning season, but Saturday demonstrated why City brought him to the club.
There will be tougher tests ahead, but facing Championship opposition in Derby and emerging with the man-of-the-match award is a strong way to begin.
Bradley’s return will unquestionably strengthen Cohen and Tom Shaw’s options when it comes, but there is no suggestion that City need to rush him back. If the prognosis remains weeks rather than months, Elerewe now has the chance to build on an excellent afternoon and ensure Bradley has genuine competition waiting for him when he is fit again.
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