Michael Skubala addressed Freddie Draper’s ongoing situation today, as he previewed Reading visiting Sincil Bank on Saturday.
Draper is currently on loan at Walsall, following an impressive spell at Drogheda, where he scored an impressive 8 goals in 21 games. Since returning from his spell in Ireland, the young striker has signed a new deal with the Imps alongside another loan move to League Two side Walsall.
The 19-year-old has since scored 8 goals in 16 games for the Sadlers and with long term injuries to Ben House and Tyler Walker, a recall to Sincil Bank could be on the cards in January. The new Imps head coach, Michael Skubala, has discussed the possibility of a recall, and highlighted the importance of making the right decision.
He said, speaking to BBC Radio Lincolnshire’s Rob Makepeace: “Freddie Draper is doing really well, he’s growing every week and he’s developing. We’ve had staff going to watch his games but it’s important we get this one right – whether we bring him back into the building or leave him out there [at Walsall].
“First of all, it’s a better level so it could be a stretch for him playing in this league. It’s important to get it right for him and for the club at the same time. Timing is really important, so we have to get his development right alongside the club’s situation too.”
Whether Draper returns to the Imps is yet to be seen, but his impressive form both in Ireland and for Walsall has certainly given us reason for optimism for when he returns and now it’s all about whether we see him in the red and white of City in January or not.
Injuries to Walker and House haven’t made it easy for Skubala and City of late, but with Reeco Hackett’s recovery progressing well, Jack Vale, Jovon Makama’s breakout season and Jack Moylan joining the squad in January, could it be more beneficial to leave Draper playing regularly in League Two?