Lockwood blow

ATHLETIC have been dealt a heavy blow with the news that defensive leader Adam Lockwood will be out of action for an extended period.

A scan has revealed that a rupture to the muscle in a foot arch has done for the club captain (32), ruling him out of action for between five and eight weeks — the latter being the worst-case scenario.

It isn’t clear yet if Athletic will bring in a replacement centre-back on loan.

One defensive free agent with Premier League experience is set to arrive on a trial basis in time to be involved in Saturday’s friendly with Huddersfield Town at SportsDirect.com Park, though.

There are also frustrations elsewhere for manager Lee Johnson.

David Noble remains on trial at the club, but injury has meant he has not yet been able to take part in a single training session. The former Bristol City and Exeter midfield man should be ready to get back on the grass by Monday morning.

Amari Morgan-Smith’s knee problem means he is still 14 days away from a return, while Connor Brown has been carrying a knock but should play some part in the game against the Championship club at the weekend.

Rhys Turner is out for a month with a hip flexor problem, but there is better news concerning Jack Truelove, who is back in full training and with a couple of offers on the table to take him out on loan as he builds his recovery from a 12-month injury absence.

The latest on Jonathan Forte, meanwhile, is that with a contract agreed in principle the ex-Rotherham forward is expected to complete the formalities of a permanent move tomorrow.