Manager explains injury timeline for Arsenal loanee

Arsenal loanee Louie Copley has suffered a minor injury setback after an encouraging start with Crawley Town, but his manager expects him back soon.

Photo via Crawley Town on Instagram

Louie Copley completed a loan move to Crawley Town earlier this month, and he quickly settled in with a couple of strong displays against Notts County and Barrow.

Crawley boss Scott Lindsey called Copley “the best player on the pitch” on his debut, and Sussex World report that he put in “impressive performances” in those first two games in senior football.

But that promising start was followed by an injury setback, and Copley has now missed both of Crawley’s League Two fixtures this week. Fortunately, his manager has suggested he won’t be out long, and the player believes he’s already fit for selection.

Photo via Crawley Town on Instagram

“Louie Copley is telling me he’s ready to play, but he’s not really ready,” Lindsey said. “Arsenal have said not yet. He needs to go through the process of ticking everything off, but he’s keen to get back out there.

“He’s a great kid and wants to play, and I thought he did magnificently well in the two games that he played. It’s unfortunate for him, but he’s just got to sit it out for now, and hopefully it won’t be too long. I would think probably by next weekend he’ll be back fit.”

If that timeline turns out to be correct, Copley won’t miss any further matches, with Crawley not in action until next Saturday’s visit from Crewe Alexandra.

Photo via Arsenal.com

Crawley’s spell of good form since Copley’s arrival has seem them push six points clear of the relegation zone, albeit having played a game more than almost every team below them.

There’s still a lot of work to do to avoid the drop to the National League, and Copley should soon be back involved in trying to help his new side out of trouble.