Michael Skubala has outlined the current situation with Lewis Montsma, ahead of our clash this weekend with Cardiff City.
Montsma has rarely been seen this season, appearing in cup competitions against the likes of Chelsea and Salford City, but not in League One. He was last seen against Salford as we dropped out of the FA Cup, and currently struggles to make the matchday squad.
Speaking ahead of this week’s top-of-the-table clash with Cardiff City, Michael Skubala has revealed why Lewis hasn’t been playing.
“The challenge for Lewis has been he’s had some real good players in front of him,” said Michael in the pre-match press conference. “We’ve got five good centre halves. We’ve got Sonny, who’s been brilliant, and Tom Hamer, who’s been brilliant.
“Jacko, who’s back on the grass with us as well, Ryley Towler, who gives more balance as well with the left foot. It’s one of those situations where Lewis is still training well, still doing okay.”
Lewis, who last appeared in League One back in April against Shrewsbury, has also had difficulties with injuries. His ACL issues are behind him, but he was recently ruled out with a shoulder issue, unbeknownst to supporters.
“A couple of weeks ago, he was in the squad, but then he had to pull out because he landed funny on his shoulder,” add Michael.
“He’s still fighting and fighting for his place.”
Lewis Montsma at Lincoln City
Montsma arrived from FC Dordrecht in the summer of 2020 and made an immediate impression, with a run of six goals in nine matches. His form over the play-off season saw him named in the PFA Team of the Year for League One.
He made 50 appearances in all competitions, but in the four-and-a-half years since, injury has restricted him to 59 further outings, in all competitions. This season, as well as the Chelsea and Salford games, he appeared in two EFL Trophy matches, against Manchester United Under 21s and Notts County.
His last goal in Imps colours came away at Leyton Orient in February, when we battled back from 2-0 down to level it at 2-2, only to concede a last-gasp goal and end up on the losing side.