Liverpool defender Luke Chambers has received a promising update regarding his recovery from a long-standing back injury sustained during his loan spell at Wigan, easing earlier concerns that his loan agreement might be terminated.
After his injury diagnosis, Chambers returned to the AXA Training Centre in October to begin his rehabilitation. At the time, Wigan manager Shaun Maloney expressed doubts about the defender’s future with the club, hinting that the loan might be cut short and his season prematurely ended.
“There’s a chance we might not see him in action for us again,” Maloney admitted to BBC Radio Manchester. “The recovery timeline is quite significant.”
However, a more recent update from Maloney has provided a much-needed positive outlook.
“Luke is scheduled to rejoin us at the end of January to commence the next stage of his rehab,” the manager shared with Wigan Observer journalist Paul Kendrick on Thursday.
“The current expectation is that he could potentially be match-fit by late February or early March. Knowing Luke, he’ll probably aim to speed up that process, but that’s the timeframe we’re working with right now.”
Chambers has been out of action since early October due to a back issue linked to his development as a young player. His absence has been keenly felt, as the 20-year-old has already missed 15 matches for Wigan, where he is regarded as a crucial member of the squad.
“There was definitely a concern [about the loan being canceled], so this update is fantastic news,” Maloney added.
“He’s such a key player for us. Even if he only returns in March and we have him for eight to 12 weeks, depending on how the season unfolds, it will be a huge lift for everyone involved.”
While Chambers’ road to recovery remains lengthy, the latest developments are undoubtedly a relief following the initial worries.
Liverpool might still see another of their loanees leave Wigan mid-season, with Calvin Ramsay struggling to secure regular minutes under Maloney.
The right-back, who endured a similarly challenging time at Preston and Bolton last season, has started just five of 12 games for the Latics. He hasn’t featured in a league matchday squad since late October.
It seems likely that Wigan will seek to terminate Ramsay’s loan early to create space in Maloney’s roster, while Liverpool are unlikely to be satisfied with his limited role so far.
Elsewhere, goalkeeper Marcelo Pitaluga may also be recalled, having failed to cement himself as the first-choice keeper at Livingston, and discussions with Norwich regarding Kaide Gordon are expected to take place.
Meanwhile, Morecambe has requested an extension for Rhys Williams’ short-term loan, aiming to keep the defender until the end of the season.
