Blues forward Jack Lankester is targeting a return to the first-team before the end of the season.

The 19-year-old underwent surgery for a second stress fracture in his back in August and hasn’t featured since the pre-season tour of Germany.

“I’m doing alright now,” Lankester told the club site. “I’ve had a couple of little setbacks along the way which happens but I think I’m past that now and on the final bit of my recovery.

“I’m looking to get back on the grass and step up my rehab around March and push on from there and hopefully play some games before the end of the season. That’s my target and it would be great if it happens.

“It’s been really tough being on the sidelines and seeing the lads going out to train every day.

“I haven’t really played in a year and sometimes it can be quite dark at times and you feel on your own but the support I’ve had around me at the club, with the players and staff is amazing and that has made it easier.”

Photo: Werner Scholz

ArnieM added 13:10 - Jan 9 See you fit and raring to go next season Jack 👍
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herfie added 13:19 - Jan 9 Keep your chin up, Jack - stick with the work to regain full fitness. Supporters are with you, and will be ready to welcome you back in competitive action. Hopefully the light at the end of a long tunnel's getting a bit brighter.
6

Chrisd added 13:36 - Jan 9 Terrific news, still very much one of our brightest prospects, but I wouldn't rush JL back, although no doubt he wants to return asap. Write-off this season and aim for a full return in pre-season.
6

billlm added 13:56 - Jan 9 I'd set your target for next season, don't rush, get yourself 200% for pre season,
5

CavendishBlue added 14:19 - Jan 9 Our BEST prospect and a good pre-season should serve well for the Championship campaign ahead.
4

Northstandveteran added 15:26 - Jan 9 Great to hear your stepping up the rehab Jack. But looking to get back on the grass ain't gonna help mate!
2

cat added 16:08 - Jan 9 This kind of typifies our luck over the last couple os seasons. Lad showed real quality until the dreaded injury curse struck. Maybe something fishy is going on in training, in fact it's that bad it smells more like a Mephitidae!
1

Northstandveteran added 16:30 - Jan 9 Just grass cat. No one mentioned skunk.
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WhoisJimmyJuan added 18:19 - Jan 9 Amidst all the doom and gloom about the current management team, I have to say they seem better at getting players back to fitness and staying injury free than some of their predecessors. Let's hope this boy recovers and enjoys a successful career. With us.
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dirtydingusmagee added 19:45 - Jan 9 good luck Jack
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timkatieadamitfc added 20:26 - Jan 9 @whoisjimmyjuan - that's because some of these players have at times played TWICE, YES TWICE in a month. Which is why we look like a team lost at times, way too much rotation and players not getting used to each other and not playing the same system consistently. Like all the rest of the teams in this and all the other leagues - PICK AND PLAY YOUR BEST 11 AND STICK WITH IT FOR A GOOD PERIOD( injuries aside naturally) Sometimes think PL still thinks he's at one of the massive clubs he used to play for, yawn

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timkatieadamitfc added 20:28 - Jan 9 Oh and can't wait for JL to get back as he looked very impressive last season, looked like he could play championship level easily
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