Virus worry for Bolton camp ahead of Millwall Championship clash

Wanderers have concerns a virus could affect their preparations for tomorrow’s clash with Millwall.

A handful of players reported illness before Wednesday night’s 2-1 win over Crewe in the Carabao Cup.

Phil Parkinson had named a much-changed squad at Gresty Road, so it is unclear how heavily his plans will be affected at The Den but with Sammy Ameobi, David Wheater and Josh Vela already out injured, he is being forced to keep a watchful eye on the camp.

Darren Pratley was ruled out of the season opener against Leeds United with a similar problem, failing a pre-match fitness assessment.

He returned against Crewe but struggled to hit top form and was restricted to just an hour.

“It was pre-planned to take him off because he’d missed the whole of last week and still wasn’t quite himself,” Parkinson said.

The Whites boss also admitted there was no update over whether the EFL had given him permission to extend his squad after the current raft of injuries.

“I know Ken is working on it like he did last year and fighting our corner.

“It is ridiculous really but until we get any news on whether we can add we have to keep working hard.”

Source

It's daft that Parky even has to consider bringing in more players - and therefore more cost - when the first year professionals can't play for the first team without being considered part of the 23 in the limited squad. Ironically, academy players - who are generally younger - can get a game without contravening the EFL rules.
I feel sorry for the likes of Perry, Hall, King and Turner who having finally been given a professional contract, but would have to go out on loan if they are going to get first team football whereas the kids coming up behind them may get a chance.
It just underlines how ill-conceived the EFL conditions are and the importance of getting the restrictions removed asap. Surely the EFL can see that these conditions have a negative effect on youth development when youth development is one of the best ways of maintaining financial stability.