Byfield facing fitness battle

Darren Byfield: freak accident.

LOAN SIGNING Darren Byfield is battling to be fit for Athletic’s Coca-Cola League One fixture at Peterborough United on Saturday after suffering a freak accident.

The unlucky striker hurt his toe while playing at home in his living room with his three-year-old daughter.

Byfield stubbed his toe on a piece of furniture and was in such pain caused by the bruising that he was unable to put on any footwear.

Indeed 32-year-old Byfield, who missed the home draw against Brighton, arrived at Boundary Park wearing a flip-flop on his right foot.

Byfield, who has made three appearances since his temporary move from Doncaster Rovers, will be hoping to be fit for Saturday’s game at London Road which is the final one before his month’s agreement comes to an end.

Athletic had another casualty as central defender and captain Sean Gregan had to be taken to North Manchester Hospital on Saturday.

Gregan was forced off in the dying minutes of the Brighton game with a nasty facial injury.

He was caught by a blow to the face which resulted in a serious cut inside his mouth and also damage to his teeth.

The paramedics at Boundary Park recommended North Manchester Hospital as they specialise in such injuries, fearing he would need a general anaesthetic such was the severity of the cut.

Happily that was not the case and Gregan was discharged late on Saturday evening having had the cut stitched. He was today recovering at home and is due to report back tomorrow when the injury will be assessed.

Athletic reacted with surprise to a report that Sheffield United have supposedly bid £500,000 for Chris Taylor.

Chief executive Alan Hardy explained there has been no contact from the Blades about the 21-year-old winger.

Mr Hardy said: “A lot of clubs admire Chris and it does not surprise me that clubs of Sheffield United’s stature are interested in him.

“We do not want to sell out better players. We want to retain them as long as possible. I can confirm that we have not received a bid from Sheffield United.”

Athletic’s young guns take centre stage when they play Newcastle United tomorrow (7.30pm) at St James’ Park in the third round of the FA Youth Cup.