Luca Connell is making good progress in his recovery, according to Barnsley manager Neill Collins.
Barnsley have been without the midfielder due to injuries so far this season.
Connell, 22, is an important player for the Tykes, having guided them to the League One play-off final last season.
Collins offered the following update on his condition to the club’s official website: “Luca’s started to be at the training ground more regularly and starting to do very light exercise.” It’s a step forward, but don’t ask me if he’ll be ready in a week! It’s still very early in the game, but seeing him is a good indication.”
Barnsley improves
Connell’s return to the pitch will be a huge boost for Barnsley, as he brings valuable skill to the team. However, doctors will not hurry him back in and will use caution to prevent making things worse.
The former Republic of Ireland youth international joined the Yorkshire club from Celtic in June last year and has settled in well. He has made 48 appearances for the club in all competitions, with two goals and ten assists.
Connell began his career at Bolton Wanderers, where he made 12 first-team appearances after progressing through their academy systems. He was then signed by Celtic in 2019 and spent three years on the Glasgow giants’ books.
During his stay at Celtic Park, though, the Liverpudlian struggled for senior minutes. He was loaned out to Queen’s Park to gain some experience before being called up by Barnsley.
He hasn’t looked back since, and his absence has been felt throughout the season thus far. Collins has stated that he is making improvement, and the Tykes are set to play Northampton Town this weekend.