Early end to Lafferty stay

Daniel Lafferty has made impressive contributions since joining Athletic on loan.

DANIEL Lafferty appears to have played his final game for Athletic.

The loan Burnley left-back came off hurt in the scoreless derby at Rochdale, the penultimate game of his stay. A sore shoulder has since been examined and could be a cracked bone.

Richard Eckersley, who replaced him after 63 minutes against Rochdale, appears first in line to take Lafferty’s spot as manager David Dunn aims to bring home Athletic’s second home victory in 12 games stretching back into last season.

Signed last month on a short-term deal, former Manchester United trainee and New York Bulls man Eckersley had up until Saturday been a non-playing substitute for Athletic.

On the opposite flank, the impressive Cameron Dummigan will play in what is the final match of his loan from Burnley. Dunn has already warned that the teenage right-back’s performances will increase the difficulty in Athletic extending the arrangement, but he is hoping to sign him for a longer stay.

The other major injury concern for Athletic surrounds the fitness of the current players’ player of the year, Mike Jones. The midfield/left-wing man suffered an ankle injured at Rochdale and had to be helped down the tunnel at half-time. He went home with a protective boot and crutches. The club is waiting for scan results, but he is a major doubt for the home game against Burton Albion on Saturday. Dominic Poleon could step in for Jones to provide attacking thrust down the left. Dunn could otherwise opt for wingers Lee Croft or Mark Yeates.