Operating loss

... with six key members of the squad preparing for operations or rehabilitation programmes.

The lengthy injury list has been well documented with the players hampered at the end of the ’17-18 campaign and the recent start to pre-season work.

Dan Wordsworth (groin)

In the next few days/weeks, the lads could be experiencing the NHS 70th anniversary celebrations as they spend time in various hospitals.

Dan Wordsworth (groin) is due to go under the knife early this month while Dav Symington (knee) will travel to Hexham for his operation next week.

Josh Calvert (groin)

Josh Calvert (groin) is having a consultation with his surgeon on Monday and Phil McLuckie (groin) will attend a similar appointment within the next fortnight.

Phil McLuckie (groin)

Scott Allison (groin) will undergo his operation towards the end of the month while Sam Joel (ankle) is currently undergoing a rehab programme for his troublesome ligament problem.

Scott Allison (groin)

All are key members of the squad and have committed to Reds for next season but, obviously, it will take time to get them back to full fitness. Most are straight forward operations and recovery is about three to four weeks, sometimes a little longer. It all depends on how each individual recovers from the surgery but we know of others, who have faced similar treatment, returning within a month so.

Sam Joel (ankle)

We all accept that injuries are part of this wonderful game of ours but having so many players sidelined at once is unprecedented at Borough Park.