Johnson's Successful Loan Continues, Positive Injury Update

 Johnson's Successful Loan Continues, Positive Injury Update

Zak Johnson of Hartlepool United during the Vanarama National League match between Hartlepool United and Solihull Moors at Victoria Park, Hartlepool on Tuesday 26th September 2023.(Image-Getty)

Johnson, who has been on loan with Hartlepool for the past month from Sunderland, swiftly solidified his position as a regular player in John Askey's starting lineup during this period.

The month-long loan initiative from the Stadium of Light served as an opportunity for Hartlepool to evaluate the prospect of keeping the young defender on a longer-term basis in the National League. Simultaneously, it provided Johnson with invaluable first-team exposure from the perspective of Sunderland.

Amidst Johnson's successful stint, Hartlepool manager Askey, as disclosed by The Mail, has agreed to extend the defender's loan tenure until the New Year, contingent upon any potential injury concerns.

However, concerns regarding an injury were swiftly dispelled when first-team coach Antony Sweeney suggested that Johnson's withdrawal during the first half of Hartlepool's defeat to Aldershot Town, due to a groin issue, might only sideline him for a few days.

"Zak's condition is seemingly a minor issue, as far as I'm aware, though I'm not a qualified physio," stated Sweeney.

"He experienced some discomfort in his groin. While this might cause some temporary absence, I don't believe it will be a prolonged setback. It appears to be more of a short-term concern rather than a long-term one. We'll monitor how it progresses and decide when he can rejoin the squad, but the outlook is optimistic for a swift return."