Cambridge United’s midfield has been hit by a sudden setback after 29‑year‑old Shane McLoughlin limped off during the 1‑1 draw at Bromley. The injury, a calf problem, forced the Copperjax Community Stadium side to bring on Sullay Kaikai early in the second half.
Head coach Neil Harris has already ruled McLoughlin out of the League Cup tie against Millwall scheduled for Tuesday night, citing the uncertainty over the full extent of the calf damage. Harris stressed that fresh additions are an "absolute must" ahead of the upcoming league clash with Huddersfield Town next weekend.
In a positive note, Gassan Ahadme is nearing a return to the squad after a groin complaint. Harris added that the club is already looking to replace Gassan with a 17‑year‑old Dan Efobi, who has not yet played league football.
The Cambridge boss, who last added an outfield player to his squad 34 days ago, said: "Shane has not missed a day of training, so that’s a kick in the nuts, let’s be honest. He’s started every game and played very, very well. I’ve talked about how instrumental he is, and how he goes under the radar with his ability to understand the game, and how he plays is so important to us. We were looking to sign another midfielder anyway, and now it’s just an absolute must for next weekend."
Harris also noted the club’s recent form: "We’ve won our first game at home, we’ve won in the cup, and we’ve drawn our first away game. There’s no pressure in that sense, apart from the fact that we’ve lost Macca now. Hopefully Gassan comes back into the group this week, which boosts us on the top line. But at the moment we’re replacing Gassan with a 17‑year‑old (Dan Efobi) that’s not played League football. We do need to add, and we know where we need to add. That’s even more relevant this week after losing Shane."
