Ross County striker Alex Samuel set for long-term spell on the sidelines – with manager Don Cowie admitting it may force his hand in the January transfer market
Ross County have confirmed that Alex Samuel is set for a long-term spell on the sidelines.
The Welsh forward was forced off in the 66th minute against Hibernian last weekend in what, at the time, seemed like a fairly innocuous issue.
However, scans have now shown that Samuel has a tear in his thigh muscle, with a second consultation still to happen which will reveal whether surgery is required, and how long any rehabilitation process may take.
Having already worked his way back from an ACL injury in his time in Dingwall, the 29-year-old is no stranger to battling adversity when it comes to his fitness.
The fact remains, though, that it is a blow both for him personally and for the Staggies, considering he had started each of the club’s last two matches.
"He will get a second opinion, but going by the initial scan result, he will be out for quite a period of time,” County manager Don Cowie said.
"We're really disappointed for Alex. He is a fantastic team-mate, who has been really patient and very supportive of the group this season.
"He has not only come off the bench to make an impact, but he has also started the last two games and he was excellent against Hibs on Saturday.
"For him to now not get the opportunity to build on what he's done over the last two games will be really frustrating for him.
"It is our job as a football club to get around him and make him feel positive.
"Alex is an incredible character. He is the epitome of what you look for in a squad player – he's always encouraging everyone and always positive.
"Everyone is really disappointed for him. Injuries are part of football but it doesn't make it easier for him.”
Cowie has admitted that Samuel’s injury blow may force his hand in the transfer market when the window opens in two weeks’ time.
As it stands, County’s out-and-out attacking options now sit at Ronan Hale, Jordan White and Eamonn Brophy, with the Staggies often having opted for two up front so far this season.
"That's why you always evaluate the squad – it can change quickly,” Cowie continued.
"You must always have your finger on the pulse and look to strengthen in different areas.
"Alex being out for a long period of time might mean we have to look elsewhere in terms of strengthening the squad.”
There was better news for County as far as their other injury concern coming out of last Saturday’s visit to Hibernian goes.
Eli Campbell was forced off in the first half after opening the scoring, but Cowie is anticipating the on-loan Everton man will only miss a couple of weeks.
"The signs are there is a little bit of damage, but it is nothing serious,” he added.
"We may lose him for a couple of games.
"It could be two weeks for Eli. When it is a knee injury, you fear the worst. He did fear the worst, but after Monday's scan, he is positive and happy that it is nothing major.
“He’s a young player who has had a big impact. He’s played a lot of minutes and is very versatile, and he’s an athlete, very mobile.
“I’m disappointed we’re not going to have him for the next couple of games, but as always it’s an opportunity for someone else. We’ll then see when we are able to get Eli back on the pitch.”