Alex Pattison injury timeframe revealed, as Lee Grant issues Walsall injury update

Lee Grant has confirmed Walsall midfielder Alex Pattison could miss the “next two months” with a hamstring injury.

The 28-year-old was introduced at half-time during the Saddlers’ 1-0 defeat at AFC Telford United on July 25, but suffered the injury after just 20 minutes.

Grant estimated that Pattison could be poised for a spell on the side lines in the immediate aftermath, and has now revealed that he will be absent until possibly early October following the scan results.

“We’re going to be without Patto for a longer period, which is a real shame,” head coach Grant said.

“Scan results are in. We’re likely to not see him for next couple of months.

“A disappointing one for all of us, but no doubt he will do the work between now and then to bring himself back in a good place and hopefully ready to make a positive impact on the group.”

Pattison, who arrived from League One side Bradford City in January, made 19 appearances for Walsall in the second half of last season, scoring once and setting up three more.

James Connolly and Rico Browne were also forced off during a 5-0 defeat at Luton Town in a behind-closed-doors friendly on Wednesday.

Connolly only made his first Walsall appearance at Telford last weekend, after spending the first fortnight of pre-season nursing an injury.

Grant did not go on record to reveal the nature of the injuries, but is hopeful both will be back on the grass next week.

“We’re hopeful we’ll see them both outside next week. We’ll have to wait and see,” Grant added.

“No real clarity as of yet, but I’m hopeful by Monday or Tuesday next week that we’ll have them both available.”

Connolly joined Walsall earlier this summer following his departure from League Two rivals Crewe Alexandra.

Meanwhile, Browne penned a two-year deal with the option of a further 12 months, after featuring 28 times for the Saddlers in all competitions last term.