The Imps return to league action this weekend following the international break, with Sheffield United visiting Sincil Bank. The fortnight without a competitive fixture has given several players additional time to recover, and Cohen confirmed that the squad is looking considerably healthier than it was a few weeks ago.
One of the main concerns had been Callum Elder, who suffered a concussion and was subsequently unavailable for selection. However, the Australian defender has now returned to training and is available again, providing further competition for Adam Reach on the left.
There was also positive news regarding Tom Hamer, who has been working his way back from injury. The defender has been involved in training for a couple of weeks, giving the coaching staff another option on the right side of the back three.
Asked for clarification on the injury situation, Cohen said:
“All good, yeah. He’s back training. Tom Hamer’s been back with the group for a couple of weeks.
“We’re closing in on a full bill of health, obviously apart from Tendayi and James Collins.”
Tendayi Darikwa remains a long-term absentee, having suffered his injury in August. His absence prompted City to strengthen their defensive options with the arrival of Daniel Oyegoke, who has since featured on the right.
James Collins is also unavailable through injury, although the experienced striker is currently on loan at Doncaster Rovers.
Meanwhile, Cohen confirmed that City’s international contingent have returned without any fresh injury concerns, despite several players featuring regularly for their countries during the break.
Ivan Varfolomeev made his senior Ukraine debut against Hungary, while Andrei Coubiș was involved with Romania and Chiedozie Ogbene featured for the Republic of Ireland. Yunus Konak and Oisin Gallagher were also involved at Under-21 level, meaning several members of the squad have been away on international duty.
Cohen was particularly pleased to see so many of his players representing their countries, something he believes should never be taken for granted.
“Yeah. We spoke about all of them today in our team meeting, and just said never take it for granted. What an incredible achievement it is to play for your national team.
“Obviously, Ivan, Andrei and Chio playing for the first teams as well, and then Yunus, and OisinGallagher playing for the Under-21s. What an amazing achievement, and lots of minutes between them.
“It’s lovely to have them back.”
The return of Elder and Hamer, alongside the international players coming back without any reported problems, leaves Cohen and fellow head coach Tom Shaw with a stronger selection pool ahead of the weekend.
There will still be decisions to make regarding those who have travelled and played significant minutes, particularly Coubiș, who featured four times for Romania during the international period. However, with the exception of the longer-term absentees, City appear to have plenty of options available as they prepare to welcome Chris Wilder’s Sheffield United.
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