York City defender Zak Johnson has been ruled out for several weeks after suffering a muscle tear. Head coach Scott Lindsey confirmed the 22-year-old's injury and provided an update on striker Josh Stones' recovery timeline.
Lindsey told The Press that Johnson sustained the injury during the first half of Saturday's 1-1 draw with Rotherham United. A subsequent scan revealed a slight tear in his hip, which was causing groin pain. The manager estimates Johnson will be sidelined for three to four weeks. This adds his name to a significant injury list that already includes Jack Hunt, Hiram Boateng, Frankie Maguire, Dipo Akinyemi, and Josh Stones. "They are some big players for us," Lindsey said. "The fact that we are playing so well without them is a credit to the lads who are playing."
Who will replace Zak Johnson in defence?
Johnson's absence creates an opportunity in central defence. Charlie McArthur and Zech Medley are both in contention to step up, while Ryan Fallowfield could also be an option after replacing Johnson at Rotherham. Lindsey expressed confidence in the available players. "They are both really good defenders, both can handle the football," he said of McArthur and Medley. The manager also noted that Hunt is the closest of the injured group to returning. Fans can track the team's defensive selections and other squad details on our squad page.
What is the latest on Josh Stones?
There has been considerable speculation online regarding striker Josh Stones' return date. Lindsey provided a clearer picture, stating a return by the end of September or start of October is now the realistic timeframe. The initial prognosis for his availability at the start of the season proved incorrect, but Lindsey stressed there has been no setback. "The harder he works, the quicker he'll be back, and I know he's working hard," the head coach explained. The medical team has established a clear pathway for his rehabilitation.
How does this affect York's upcoming fixtures?
The injury news comes ahead of York's next League One fixture against Exeter City at the LNER Community Stadium this Saturday. Navigating this period will test the squad's depth. The team's current form, taking four points from their last two matches, offers some encouragement. Supporters can view the full schedule of upcoming challenges on our fixtures page. The club's injury situation can also be monitored via our dedicated injuries list.
What is the current state of York's squad?
Despite the absences, York sits in a respectable mid-table position early in the season. The team has shown resilience, a quality that will be needed as they manage this spell. Key players like Johnson had made positive early impressions, with the defender starring in the opening day win against Bristol Rovers. Lindsey addressed Johnson's disappointment directly. "I said to him that this is part of the game now," he recounted, challenging the player to return in 'tip top condition'. York's next match is at home to Exeter City on Saturday, September 5th.
