As quoted by the Blackpool Gazette, Blackpool FC manager Simon Grayson says that Rangers loanee, Jak Alnwick, is facing an extended spell on the sidelines through injury.
The 26-year-old had been an ever-present in EFL League One for The Seasiders until he was forced off during the Boxing Day defeat against Accrington Stanley.
It’s now clear that there’ll be no quick return to action, with surgery required to correct the bicep problem.
“He’s seeing the specialist on Thursday and is booked in to have an operation on Friday,” said Grayson, as quoted by the Blackpool Gazette. “Potentially we’re talking 12 weeks, which is obviously a big injury for him to suffer.”
However, it seems unlikely that Alnwick will be returning to Glasgow as a result of the setback.
“I think Rangers are happy for him to do their rehab with us, he’s settled in his house on the Fylde coast so I would expect him to be with us for the rest of the season still.”
Verdict
This is a major blow for Alnwick, particularly following hints from Grayson last month that suggested Blackpool could soon look to offer him a permanent deal [Blackpool Gazette].
Given that he’s out of contract at Ibrox in the summer, the keeper will be looking to tie up his future as soon as possible, but he’s likely to have to wait to return to full fitness before any negotiations could resume.
It had been a positive season up until this point for the ex-Newcastle United man, who has kept seven clean sheets in the league, helping his side to a respectable 10th in the table.
Meanwhile, former Gers striker Ryan Hardie continues to struggle for game time with the English club, following his summer transfer. He’s made just 12 appearances to date and is yet to score in the league.
