Chris Forino will not be available for Bolton Wanderers until the Middlesbrough game on 23 October at the earliest due to a groin injury. The 26-year-old centre-back has missed the last three matches and his absence has coincided with a defensive downturn for a side currently 17th in the standings.
Head coach Steven Schumacher provided a detailed update on the defender's recovery. "Chris is planning on being on part of training on Thursday and Friday," Schumacher said. The manager explained that Forino suffered a minor groin strain after the West Ham game over a month ago. He trained through the recent international break but the issue flared up again, ruling him out of a friendly against Motherwell. Forino's training will be modified this week before he enters full-contact sessions next week, putting the Middlesbrough match in his sights.
Forino's defensive importance
Forino's extended absence is a significant blow. He had been one of Bolton's standout performers in the early weeks of the season, winning 75.9% of his aerial duels. Since he got hurt, the team has managed just one clean sheet, conceding six goals in the other two games. This defensive fragility has contributed to a run of three defeats in their last five outings, including a 2-1 home loss to Stoke City before the international break.
Schumacher acknowledged the player's value. He described Forino as a good player who proved important for the team early in the season. The club invested heavily in its defence over the summer, but captain Eoin Toal began the campaign late due to his own injury. Ben Davies has performed well but needs a consistent partner, while options like Lewis Brunt and Akin Famewo are primarily full-backs. The full squad depth will be tested during this busy period.
Squad decisions for busy week
With Forino still out, Schumacher must handle a three-game week starting with a trip to Wolves. He confirmed there are no new injury issues for that match and welcomed Luca Stephenson and Lewis Brunt back to full fitness. The manager stated he could make changes with another away trip to Southampton to follow on Saturday, emphasising that everyone in the squad can contribute. The team's next fixtures present a tough challenge as they look to improve a league position built on 10 points from nine games.
Bolton's immediate focus is on arresting their recent form, which reads LWWLL. The potential return of a key defender like Chris Forino for the Middlesbrough clash could provide a timely boost to a back line seeking stability.
The original report is at The Bolton News
