Doncaster defender, Joe Wright, will miss the entire 2021/22 season through injury, according Richie Wellens, as per the Doncaster Free Press.

Wright, a former Wales Under-21 international, sustained severe ankle and knee injuries against Peterborough United during the final game of last season. Initially the prognosis was that Wright could expect to miss nine months but Wellens has now stated the recovery period is expected to take even longer.

Wright’s contract at Doncaster expired over the summer and although he is now a free agent, Rovers are covering the defender’s medical costs to see him through his recovery. However, Wellens stated that a decision on whether Wright will be offered a new contract won’t be made until he has proved his fitness, stating to Doncaster Free Press: “Joe won’t be fit for the rest of the season so we’re obviously looking after Joe in terms of his rehabilitation. I’ve had that injury myself and it’s a tough injury to come back from.”

The injury update is a blow for Wright, who had a solid season last term making 31 League One appearances, proving himself to be an integral part of the side and someone who, therefore, may have expected to be offered a new contract at the Keepmoat Stadium.

However, Wellens has refused to rule out offering Wright a new contract on his return, stating: “Obviously when Joe looks like he can get back on the pitch we’ll make a decision on that.”

The Verdict

Wright’s injury could not have come at a worse time with it occurring in the last game of his contract and with the free agent market being filled with talent, Wright could be faced with a lot of competition when he recovers.

He will however take heart in the fact that Doncaster are supporting him through his rehabilitation, which suggests that they see him as a player they hope to retain should Wright be able to prove his fitness.