Birmingham City manager Chris Davies has delivered a significant injury update, confirming that key winger Demarai Gray will be unavailable until next month.
Gray's Setback Extends Blues' Absence List
The 29-year-old attacker suffered a calf injury during the Championship draw with Derby County on Boxing Day and has subsequently missed the club's last three fixtures. Gray had been enjoying a rich vein of form prior to the setback, making his absence a considerable blow for Davies's side.
Providing a timeline for the player's return, Davies stated: "I still think we're looking into February for Demarai. The original estimation was six weeks, but he would be one that I think would get back in a quick timeframe."
The manager did offer a glimmer of hope, praising Gray's professionalism and recovery habits. "He's a quick healer and not injured much, really professional, so he'll do everything he can to reduce that time. But I think we are looking right into February for that one," Davies added.
Defensive Blow as Cochrane Joins Treatment Room
The news on Gray was compounded by a fresh concern for defender Alex Cochrane. The full-back missed last weekend's victory over Coventry City and is now facing a spell out with an ankle problem.
"Alex has obviously got an issue with his ankle and he's going to be out for a few weeks," Davies confirmed. "Keshi [Anderson] is doing OK but Alex is the one we're going to miss for longer. He's played so much football and done so well but it's another setback for Alex."
Laird's Long-Awaited Return on the Horizon
In a more positive development, right-back Ethan Laird remains on course to resume training in February. The defender has been sidelined long-term with a hamstring injury.
"Ethan Laird is step by step moving forward, hopefully he can start training and being with everyone again in February," said the Blues boss.
These updates come as Birmingham City prepare for their FA Cup third-round clash away at League Two side Cambridge United this Saturday. Davies will be forced to plan without several first-team players for the trip to the Abbey Stadium.
