James Ball’s Return
James Ball has re‑joined Swindon Town training after suffering a Grade 2A hamstring tear in the final run of the warm‑up before the club faced Bristol City a month ago. The former AFC Wimbledon defender, who has been battling injury problems since the start of July, is now close to the four‑week recovery period that was initially expected.
"He's started back out on the grass, and he's joining in slightly," said manager Ian Holloway. "I can't tell you when because I don't ask about it. I'm only trying to deal with this weekend." The return gives Ball a chance to prove himself at centre‑back, right‑back and centre‑midfield.
The Wider Injury Picture
Swindon have endured injuries to 14 different players since pre‑season, including long‑term issues for Gavin Kilkenny, Fletcher Holman and Joel McGregor. Harry Smith is still recovering from an anterior cruciate ligament rupture sustained against Barnet on 19 August 2025.
Anthony Munda and James Debayo are expected to re‑join the squad this weekend, potentially allowing Swindon to field a full 18‑man matchday squad for the first time this season, even with Joseph Hungbo dealing with a thigh problem. Next week’s fixture against Oldham Athletic should see Paul Glatzel and Joe Snowdon return from their hamstring struggles, while Sam Inwood is likely to be back a week later for the match against Colchester United.
Managing the Squad
The club’s injury crisis has forced a cautious approach to player minutes. Ollie Clarke, Ollie Palmer and Ryan Tafazolli have all had their minutes managed in the first two weeks of the season, a strategy that Holloway intends to continue as players return from injury. The late arrival of new signings, many of whom missed full pre‑seasons, has added to the complexity of squad planning.
Swindon’s injury woes have highlighted the need for depth across the backline and midfield, and Ball’s return is a welcome relief as the club works to stabilise its defensive options for the coming fixtures.
