Nottingham Forest fans are concerned about how big a blow the absence of Steve Cook and Max Lowe will be to their promotion chances this season.
The duo were both forced off with injuries during the 4-0 win over Reading on Saturday, and boss Steve Cooper has since declared the pair are set for a significant time in the treatment room.
It is Lowe 's second spell out this season having already missed two months with a groin issue. His team-mate is ruled out with an ankle problem.
“They are both out for six weeks. The win came at a cost with those injuries,” said Cooper. “It’s a blow for the two lads and a blow for us. But, unfortunately, these things happen.
“What’s important is we stay positive, stay strong, utilise the squad and look after the boys who are injured while continuing to try to make progressive steps.
“They are key players, but we won’t be the only team that’s got injuries to key players."
He added: “The lads who got injured have to commit to their recovery now, and we have to commit to the next game.
“It’s the same side for Max, but it’s a slightly different injury. It’s not like a complete recurrence of the one before.
“This happens. It probably won’t be the last time this season that we get injuries. Hopefully not, but it can happen.
“They were both unfortunate situations. We couldn’t prevent them. As long as we look after the guys who are injured, which we will, we have to accept that’s the game.
“I’m not the only manager sitting here with a few injuries, it’s normal - particularly at this time of the season. We’ll focus on the players who are available and get ready for the next game.”
This is what some Forest fans had to say about the latest injury news...
@dazzler_m: That’s a massive loss.
@HarveyLawrence8: Two massive losses. A great opportunity for Laryea to come into the side and prove himself. Excited to see him play. Also wonder who will take the third centre back spot with so many options now.
@jakeleewhalin: Max Lowe and Steve Cook out of six weeks - oh no.
@williambroome: Cook & Lowe both big injury blows But Steve Cooper will work it out. Keep the faith.
@NathanJoyes1: Lowe, Cook and Grabban to return in mid-April, which involves an international break in between now and then, so isn’t as bad as it first appears. Big losses, but at least we have a big enough squad to cover them for a change.
@BrummieTricky: People saying not good news on Cook, but I was 99% sure he’d done his ACL and would be out until Xmas, so 6 weeks is fantastic news. Won’t miss many with the 2 week international break coming up. Lowe also a huge blow. Time for signings to step up.
@BennyMacNFFC: Very bad news re Injuries. I just hope this isn’t the week we look back on which cost us chance of play-offs.
@PeterOHanrahaH: 6 weeks isn't good for losing Cook and Lowe, especially with us heading into the run in now. But considering the former looked like a knee injury and the fear then becomes ACL, then it isn't as bad as it could have been at least.
@Nesto25: Eeeek. That’s a real blow for us. Believe in Cooper, Believe in the squad.
