TOWN HIT BY VALLEJO BLOW!

SPANIARD’S RETURN TO ACTION FROM INJURY IS DELAYED

HUDDERSFIELD Town will have to wait until next month before being able to unleash Alex Vallejo back on the Championship after a set-back in his injury recovery.

The 29-year-old Spaniard has had a difficult time at the Terriers since his arrival from Fuenlabrada, making just 14 starts since signing just over a year ago.

There had been hope Vallejo, who has not featured since scoring his only league goal to date in the 3-2 win over Blackburn

Rovers in September, would be back in action by now.

But his knee has not reacted to treatment as had been hoped, with a further two weeks on the sidelines now expected.

Vallejo could return for the trip to Cardiff City on November 6, but with that game being the final match before the next international break, the likelihood of him not featuring until the home clash with West Brom on November 20 is increasing.

“Alex Vallejo has taken half a step back,” explained Town boss Carlos Corberan.

“The reaction of his knee was not what we hoped so the medical staff have changed their treatment plan and we think he should be back in around two weeks.

“I have no doubt how important he can be in the team but, unfortunately, he’s picked up that injury. Always a football player you need to be ready to adapt to these situations.”

Meanwhile, Matty Pearson will be fit for selection against Birmingham at the John Smith’s Stadium tonight after leaving the field on Saturday in the 2-0 win over Hull City with a virus.

“I expect to have all the same players available as the last game. Matty Pearson went off with a stomach virus but he’s been back in training and he’s fine,” added Corberan.

“We knew Saturday would demand a lot of energy and Birmingham is going to be exactly the same in terms of what it demands.

“We know their throw-ins are like corners which means a lot of transitions and a lot of mobility required to get up and down the pitch.”