Doncaster Rovers manager Grant McCann has confirmed a double injury boost ahead of the team's key home match against Notts County. The news sees experienced defender James Husband and midfielder Harry Clifton return to the squad.
McCann told the press that everyone came through the previous match against Stevenage without issue. He added two players to the available group. "Everyone's come through fine (after Stevenage) and we've added a couple as well. So, James Husband's back fit and available," McCann said. The manager also confirmed the return of Harry Clifton, stating, "Harry Clifton's is also fit and available. That's a plus for us really having a couple extra bodies around the squad."
James Husband, 32, rejoined Doncaster Rovers from Blackpool over the summer. He made 73 appearances for the club before his initial departure in 2014. A hamstring injury sustained in pre-season had kept him out of the first five games of the new campaign. Husband spent the last seven years of his career at Blackpool, having also played for Middlesbrough, Fulham, Huddersfield Town, Norwich City, and Fleetwood Town.
Harry Clifton has been absent since the loss to Mansfield Town with what has been described as a non-serious injury. His expected return to the matchday squad provides McCann with more options in midfield. The boost comes at an important time for a team sitting 20th in League One with just two points from three games. Their recent form reads DDL, with three goals scored and four conceded.
While two players return, several others remain on the sidelines. Forward Frankie Okoronkwo is still being eased back into action after returning to training. Defenders Tom Nixon and Matty Pearson are both out with calf problems. Full-back Jamie Sterry is around two weeks away from a return after suffering a hamstring injury against Middlesbrough. Fans can track the latest team news on our dedicated injuries page.
This leaves McCann with a patched-up defensive line as his team seeks a first win of the season. The return of Husband's experience could be vital. Doncaster Rovers are currently five points behind early leaders Blackpool in the title race.
The fixture represents a significant opportunity for Doncaster Rovers to kickstart their season. They host a Notts County side that arrives unbeaten. County have drawn with Leicester City and Luton Town and secured a 2-1 victory over Burton Albion. A positive result at the Eco-Power Stadium is important for morale and the league table.
McCann will be looking to solidify a defence that has conceded four goals in three matches. The availability of Husband offers a potential solution. Supporters can view the full League One standings to see how the table shapes up around their team.
Following the clash with Notts County, Doncaster Rovers face another home match. They are scheduled to host Plymouth Argyle on September 5th. Plymouth currently sit 11th in the table, providing another tough test. The sequence of home games is a chance for McCann's side to build momentum in front of their own fans.
The immediate focus, however, is solely on Notts County. With key players returning from injury, McCann hopes his squad has the depth and quality to secure a much-needed three points. The match kicks off at 3pm on Saturday.
