Chris Howarth, Athletic's on loan keeper from Bolton, could be out of action for two weeks. Howarth had to limp out of the League Cup game at Rotherham in the 29th minute after his attempted clearance caused him problems. Athleticphysio Lee Nobes tried to patch him up be he had to be replaced by young reserve keeper Terry Smith who had never played in the first team before. The injury adds to John Sheridan's woes as he already has Leg Pogliacomi sidelined through a knee injury.
Sheridan said, "It looks like Chris is going to be out for a couple of weeks. If I can get another keeper in, then I will do, but if not Terry Smith will play. I'll have a look around and see who's available."