Right back Sam Long has been forced to sit on the sidelines and follow concussion protocols for the last three games, while goalkeeper Jamie Cumming, plus Billy Bodin, Josh Murphy and Will Goodwin have all shaken off injuries.
The latter of that quintet is the one most likely to excite U’s fans, who have yet to see their January signing in action, after arriving at the club with a minor quad injury.
Now that it’s over, the 21-year-old attacker will play his first game for United against Blackpool, who are five points and one spot behind them in the Sky Bet League One standings.
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U’s head coach Des Buckingham said of Goodwin: “He’s back and has been training, and is available for selection, and will travel to Blackpool.
He showed in with a minor ache that he wasn’t even aware of, but he has been waiting patiently.
“He’s worked really hard to hopefully prepare himself as best he can, so that when he does enter the field, he can show people what he can do,” said Amy Cranston, head of medical, together with our medical staff and the sports science men.
In order to acquire Goodwin, United had to fend off a fierce proposal from Charlton Athletic, a third-tier team. Both teams are believed to have offered about £400,000 for the centre forward, who has six goals in 16 League One appearances this season.
Although Buckingham notes that Goodwin is more than capable of playing to feet, the striker’s height and physical presence are expected to provide a fresh threat to the U’s assault.
“Will has been signed for the short term as well as the long term,” he stated. His physicality is the first thing that immediately stands out, and he makes good use of it.
He also has outstanding footwork skills. It’s crucial that he be able to assist us in linking play since he is someone who can do it.
“Inside the box, he’ll present us with an alternative threat via additional aerial routes.”
Regarding the other players expected back this weekend, Buckingham stated: “Josh Murphy returns with a welcome addition of pace to the team, and Billy Bodin has been deemed fit and will travel with the squad.”
“Sam Long has completed all of the testing and is back to normal following his concussion protocols. This week, Jamie Cumming completed his entire training load, making him an additional candidate for selection.
“If Joe Bennett trains well and is ready for selection on Tuesday, he will play for Wigan.”
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