Isaak Davies’ Return to Play Delayed Until Mid-January, Says Riza

Interim manager Omer Riza has stated that Cardiff City striker Isaak Davies is not anticipated to return to play before mid-January at the earliest. Davies sustained a hamstring tear during Cardiff’s final pre-season fixture against Hertha BSC. The 23-year-old experienced a “set-back” in his recovery from the severe hamstring injury sustained in a pre-season game in August. Earlier projections had indicated Davies would be ready to play by November. Riza commented, “He’s working hard in the gym now. He’s a focused lad so he’ll come through that OK and he’ll be a good asset when he’s back.” In more encouraging news regarding another player sidelined for an extended period, striker Kion Etete marked his return from injury by scoring. The 22-year-old, who also suffered a hamstring injury during pre-season, scored for Cardiff’s Under-21 team in their 4-1 victory against Bristol City on Monday. Riza stated, “Kion makes me laugh on a daily basis.” He added, “He’s training hard. He’s working hard. He’s moaning hard, but it’s all in good spirit. Good to see him get time with the 21s – [he had] 45 minutes and he scored a goal, which is good for him after such a long time out. And we’ll see how he progresses.”