Royle Waiting on McGreal

Last updated : 04 November 2003 By Site Editor

McGreal has been ruled out since February with a knee injury, and last week played in a reserves game on the start of his road to recovery. With Richard Naylor, Chris Makin, Drissa Diallo and Aidian Collins ruled out of the game against Derby, and Gerard Nash doubtful, McGreal's fitness could be very important to helping solve the clubs current defensive injury crisis.

Another option for Royle apart from playing the former Tranmere man would be to bring in a player on loan, something which Royle admits he has considered: "I haven't totally ruled out that option.

"But Richard is only out for one game, Drissa Diallo and Chris Makin are on their way back and there's also John close to full fitness. It is not an ideal situation.

"It would be a big decision to bring in a loan player - a really big call - and it might effectively be for one game only." he concluded.

McGreal himself however, is optimistic that he can make a return in Town's trip to Pride Park, and says it's very much his target: : "I'm hoping I can get a full 90 minutes under my belt against Forest and then go straight into the first-team squad.

"I imagined it would take a lot longer than this to get back, but the situation we are in with injuries and suspensions has given me a chance. If all goes well I'll definitely be ready at the weekend. It's a chance and I mean to take it."

Click here for a Player Profile with in depth information on John McGreal