Lincoln City have received a welcome injury boost ahead of West Ham United’s visit, with Andrei Coubiș back in training and available for selection.
City host the Hammers at Sincil Bank tomorrow night as we look to respond to Saturday’s 3-0 defeat at Sheffield United. Tom Shaw has provided an update on the squad ahead of the game, with Coubiș’s return offering some positive news after a disappointing afternoon at Bramall Lane.
The defender’s knee problem following international duty had raised concerns among supporters, but his return to training means the setback has proved less serious than some feared. Speaking ahead of the West Ham fixture, Shaw confirmed his availability and provided the latest on Reeco Hackett and Ethan Wheatley.
“Yeah, we came through with no bumps and bruises,” said Tom.
“Andrei Coubiș has been back training and is available for this one, which is important.
“Reeco’s in the last part of his concussion protocol, training today. Ethan Wheatley’s got a bit of a problem with his ankle, so he’ll be touch and go for tomorrow.
There is also progress for Tottenham Hotspur loanee Mason Melia, who has been sidelined since picking up an injury before the international break. The striker still has some recovery work ahead of him, but Shaw explained that he has remained involved in the attacking meetings while working towards a return to the grass.
“Mason’s recovering well. He’s accelerated over the last few weeks, and he’ll be back out on the grass in the next week or 10 days, I believe. That’s the information.
“He’s been working hard in the gym, been in all the meetings, all the attacking meetings, taking on loads of information. He’s raring to go for when he’s available.”
Coubiș’s return, should he be in the starting XI, is huge. With a big throw, pace and power, he was one of the marquee signings of the summer, and has settled far quicker than expected.
The others wouldn’t be expected to play a major role, although attacking options will be important as we seek to bounce back from the Bramall Lane beating.
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