MacDonald has fingers crossed over latest injury

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UNLUCKY Charlie MacDonald was left kicking his heels in frustration with an injury as Athletic gained a point against Bradford City.

Top performer in the 2-1 win at Shrewsbury, MacDonald suffered the latest in a catalogue of niggles after complaining of a sore thigh on the eve of the match.

Now the ex-Brentford and MK Dons forward must play a waiting game.

“My quad was very tight in training and it didn’t feel right,” said MacDonald (32), who has made only 10 appearances but scored four times. “I am hoping it isn’t anything serious.”

Manager Lee Johnson said: “It is a big disappointment as he hasn’t been fit often enough this season and he is a big player for us.”

MacDonald’s absence resulted in another reshuffle up front, this time with Jonson Clarke-Harris restored to the starting line-up. The 19-year-old made the most of his chance, smashing home an equaliser to put Athletic in 14th place in the division – with a game in hand over most of the sides above.

“We are looking quite hard to beat,” Johnson added. “There are a few little things we need to iron out, though. But with the way we work and the methods we use, I am comfortable we are going to get better.”