Ikeme Returns Early

Carl Ikeme has returned early from international duty with Nigeria after suffering from a stomach bug.

The Wolves stopper featured in the Super Eagles' 1-1 draw with Egypt in Kaduna on Friday but Ikeme was forced to return to the UK before the Nigeria national side again faced Egypt in Alexandria on Tuesday evening.

 

Discussing the goalkeeper's illness, Wolves Head Coach Kenny Jackett said: "He has picked up a stomach bug while away with Nigeria. He missed their second game and has flown home.

 

"He had a very high temperature so we will have to see how he recovers this week so they sent him home early because he was struggling.

 

"He came back yesterday morning and at least there is a little bit of time ahead of the weekend.

 

"That is a good thing and we will see how recovers but he was quite bad and our doctor saw him yesterday afternoon."

 

With Ikeme and Emi Martinez both featuring heavily for Wolves this season, Jackett revealed that competition for the starting place is now stronger than ever.  

 

"He has done very well Carl," said the gaffer before adding: "I have been pleased with him and he has played behind what is an inexperienced defence.

 

"Martinez hasn’t been back from injury long but Carl has kept his place.

 

"Emi has reacted very well. He understands. He has had a long injury with a thigh muscle that was giving him a problem.

 

"He is battling for his place and we feel we have two good goalkeepers there but he will definitely be pushing for a start before the end of the season because he is back now and full fit."

 

Mike Williamson, James Henry and Dave Edwards are all closing in on a return from injury and Jackett commented on their progress.

 

"Williamson should be training tomorrow. He will then build up and hopefully get some games before the end of the season but he won’t be involved on Saturday.

 

"He needs at least 10 days I think.

 

"James Henry has a chance for Saturday and I'm hoping he will be fit.

 

"He has been training this week and if all goes to plan and he has no problems he should be available for Ipswich.

 

"Edwards is similar to Mike and is maybe two weeks away."

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