Anthony Pilkington's Euros dream alive after scan boost
Republic of Ireland and Cardiff City's Anthony Pilkington has received good news on his injury. Photo: David Maher / Sportsfile
Anthony Pilkington has received good news from a scan on the knee he injured in Cardiff's draw with Burnley on Tuesday night.
Pilkington left the ground on crutches following his side's draw with the Championship leaders, and manager Russell Slade later admitted they were worried about a player who has adapted into a new role as a striker.
"He's in a brace so we're taking all precautions," said Slade. "We just hope it's not too serious because he's done very well since we've converted him up there."
Pilkington returned to Wales for a hospital visit that produced a reassuring result according to a statement released by his employers which said he had 'suffered no serious injury'.
They added that the player will resume training with the first team squad 'once suitably rested so as to alleviate symptoms.'
Martin O'Neill has always rated Pilkington but his persistent problems with injury have halted the progress of his Ireland career.
The 27-year-old has to manage his working week carefully because of an existing knee issue and that has prevented him from making a full contribution to international weeks.
With tournament football bringing games in quick succession, O'Neill recently admitted that it would be a risk to bring a player with persistent question marks over his fitness as he might not be available for all three group matches.
"I would have to take some responsibility for a set of circumstances where a player is in consideration for two of the games if not all three," he said.
Meanwhile, Derry City chairman Philip O'Doherty has confirmed that the Candystripes will be moving to Donegal for the final stretch of the Airtricity League season to allow the renovation of The Brandywell.
Derry flagged up before the start of the campaign that they would be temporarily moving house to meet their 2017 deadline.
After exploring the available venues, the Maginn Park home of the Inishowen League in Buncrana emerged as the most suitable option.
"The work is due to start in July but it may be delayed to suit us," stressed O'Doherty. "It means we might have less games to play in Maginn Park."
Derry will pay for necessary improvements including the installation of temporary seating that is currently in use at The Brandywell. Maginn Park has previously hosted League Cup games.
