MARCUS Browne is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines with a hamstring injury, Oxford United boss Liam Manning has confirmed.
The 25-year-old winger hobbled off 27 minutes into the 3-1 win at Barnsley on Saturday, having earlier won the penalty which Cameron Brannagan converted to give the U’s a 1-0 lead.
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Speaking this afternoon, Manning revealed the extent of Browne’s injury.
He said: “It wasn’t great news on Marcus. He’s going to be out for a few months, so we’re not going to see him for a little while.
“It’s a blow for him because I can’t speak highly enough in terms of how much he’s progressed, and his professionalism and how he’s gone about his gym work, how he’s taken care of his body and how he’s trained.
“It’s just really unfortunate for him. He’d got himself into a good spot and was contributing massively to the team.
“I’m gutted for him first and foremost, and gutted for the team because of what he’d been bringing recently.”
Despite the blow, Manning highlighted the example of Stephan Negru, who has seamlessly replaced Jordan Thorniley at the heart of the United defence.
“It’s an unfortunate part of the industry that people are going to pick up injuries and miss periods of time,” said Manning.
“What it does is open the door for other people. We were disappointed to lose Jordan and then Steph comes in and grabs that opportunity.
“What it does highlight is the importance of the depth you have in the group and the players’ states of mind.
“You might feel like you’re a million miles away from being in the team, but as we’ve seen recently, one injury and it can quickly change and turn.”
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