Exeter City defender Ed Turns is back on the grass after a double hip operation that has sidelined him since February. Manager Matt Taylor confirmed the 23-year-old centre-back is moving closer to a return, offering a defensive boost for a side sitting 20th in League Two.
Turns has not featured since the opening Carabao Cup game against Plymouth Argyle. He underwent what Taylor described as a significant rehabilitation process. "He's been to the footballer's version of hell where you've had surgery and he had double surgery," the manager said.
Cox sidelined
Forward Sonny Cox will miss Saturday's match against Tranmere Rovers and the next three games after sustaining a knee strain. The injury occurred during the 2-0 EFL Trophy win over Tottenham Hotspur U21s earlier this month. Taylor stressed the issue is a strain, not a long-term tear, with hopes Cox can return to training within ten days.
Squad availability
Midfielder Harry Kite is available for selection after missing the season opener. His return adds depth to a squad looking to improve on a recent run of one win in five league games. The Grecians' last outing was a 1-0 defeat at Port Vale on September 12, leaving them on five points from six matches.
Taylor provided the update ahead of the trip to Prenton Park. "Ed Turns is the only one as a longer term absentee, but he's got his boots back on and he's back on the grass," he told reporters. The manager now has more options as he seeks a first league win since the 2-0 victory over Accrington Stanley in late August.
The next home game is against Northampton Town on January 9. Northampton currently occupy 17th place, three points ahead of Exeter. The club's current squad list shows the defensive options available in Turns's continued absence. Exeter City prepare for Tranmere Rovers this Saturday.
Background and full detail: Devon Live
