Jacobs diagnosis '˜not great', admits Caldwell

Jacobs was stretchered from the field during last weekend’s 1-1 draw at Crewe in obvious discomfort.

The good news is he’s escaped serious damage, which could have wrecked most of the rest of the season.

While admitting the news is ‘not great’, boss Gary Caldwell is hoping eight-goal Jacobs will be back sooner rather than later.

“Michael’s had a scan, and he’s got a tear in his calf,” Caldwell told the Evening Post.

“It’s not as serious as it could have been, but it’s obviously not great.

“I’m sure he’ll be back quicker than expected because he’s so young and fit and hungry to get back.”

While careful not to put an exact date on Jacobs’ expected return, Caldwell says the ex-Wolves man is already making good progress with his recovery.

“The doctors always give you an estimate, but they are negative and pessimistic,” he added.

“I always tell a player to be positive and believe in themselves, do the work they’re told to, live right, eat right, and they’ll be back quicker than they’ve been told.

“Michael was on crutches for a few days but he’s started walking again and he’s been working in the gym.

“That’s small progress and he’ll continue that work until he’s ready to join in on the field so he’s physically ready as quickly as possible.”