Positive twist on Jesurun comeback
JIMMY Mcnulty gave an update on Dale’s injured contingent following Saturday’s 2-0 win over Kidderminster Harriers.
The Dale head coach is currently missing six first team players, including Adam Clayton, Kairo Mitchell, Devante Rodney and Brad Kelly.
George Nevett was ruled out for up to eight weeks at the beginning of the year, but there is better news on Jesurun Uchegbulam who went off injured at AFC Fylde on New Year’s Day.
“The great news on him is that it’s nothing major,” said Mcnulty.
“The fear at first was a suspected hip fracture from the ambulance guys which was really concerning.
“That was ruled out so hopefully it’s just a severe impact injury, but who knows? Fingers crossed for him being available for the next game.
“Kairo is still some decent time away. Devante and Adam Clayton are the same. Brad Kelly is out for the season.”
Dale did welcome back Kyle Ferguson on Saturday, with the defender getting over 20 minutes of action.
“Kyle returned today which was great to get him out on the pitch,” said Mcnulty
“They said I could use him for 20 minutes which we pretty much got.”
On the three points, Mcnulty felt Dale found a bit of spark after the break which helped earn the victory.
“It was a game that we had to generate our own energy, in a moment when I’ve been concerned about that energy. Moments where it’s flat, you almost predict that they may happen.
“In those moments you need a spark, some quality, something to go for you.
“Particularly in the firsthalf, everything was nearly.
“We were on the edge of doing something good all the time, but it always broke down.
“I have to be mindful of what I’m asking the players to do at the minute, because they’re in very tough circumstances.
“There were some minor tweaks and small points where we could help at half-time, and we found a bit of a spark in the second-half.
“I thought it lifted the ground and got us what was a very pleasing result.”