Harris hopes for all-clear to face City on Sunday

Bob Harris could return to action against Coventry City this weekend.
Sheffield United will not take any risks with defender Bob Harris (right)Sheffield United will not take any risks with defender Bob Harris (right)
Sheffield United will not take any risks with defender Bob Harris (right)

The Sheffield United defender is undergoing a series of concussion protocols at his club’s Steephalt Academy training complex after receiving a blow to the head during Saturday’s victory over Oldham Athletic.

Football Association rules prohibit any player diagnosed with concussion from participating in a game for at least six days but, with United’s next fixture taking place on a Sunday, Harris would be eligible for selection if medical staff grant him the all-clear.

The full-back during a training session with Sheffield United © copyright : Blades Sports PhotographyThe full-back during a training session with Sheffield United © copyright : Blades Sports Photography
The full-back during a training session with Sheffield United © copyright : Blades Sports Photography

“He was given the all-clear from hospital but, as with every head injury, there are procedures to follow,” United’s assistant manager Andy Crosby said last night. “He’s been out on the grass this morning but obviously not doing anything like heading a ball. Bob has to go through and tick a box every day as it were before he can even be considered.”

Harris left the pitch on a stretcher during the first-half of the FA Cup second round tie. Should he fail one of the tests, or report symptoms such as a headache or disturbed sleep, then he must return to the previous phase of the FA’s recovery programme and miss City’s visit. Equally, if Harris suffers another concussion this season, then the advice of a “suitably qualified neurological specialist” must be sought “prior to return to play.”

“Safety is paramount and quite rightly so,” Crosby said. “I think you could see the serious nature of the situation on Saturday. Nobody likes to see that happen but thankfully he’s okay.”