Football Howley making pleasing progress after injury, says Carr

HYS Cart, the Bristol Rovers assistant head coach, has returned a positive verdict on Rovers’ injury concerns, after midfielder Ryan Howley was absent from the Gas’ squad which beat Barrow 2-1 on Saturday, while right-back Macauley Southam-Hales dropped to the bench following a run of eye-catching displays.

- Dan HARGRAVES

However, the Welshman also stressed he doesn’t “like to put timescales on players” to avoid unnecessary strain during their recovery.

Howley, signed from Coventry City this summer after a trial period, has largely impressed in his two league starts, but has been absent since a 27-minute substitute appearance in the 1-0 win against Grimsby Town a fortnight ago.

Birmingham City loanee Alfie Chang has filled the vacant midfield spot with a pair of notable displays in the 21-year-old’s absence, while Joel Cotterill got his first taste of League Two football in blue and white when he came off the bench in the 67th minute, having been on international duty last weekend following a deadline-day loan move from Swansea City.

Darrell Clarke explained to the Bristol Post after the 3-2 win at Newport County that he would be assessed that coming Monday after missing the trip to South Wales and Carr has since returned a promising update.