Swindon Town's injury crisis deepened this week as teenage forward Louis Millard suffered a shoulder problem that requires a scan. The 17-year-old became the 20th different player to pick up an injury since the start of July, casting a shadow over the club's 3-1 victory at Colchester United.
Millard was hurt in the 64th minute of the match at the LNER Community Stadium. Manager Ian Holloway confirmed the youngster's shoulder "popped out" and the club must now wait for medical assessment. "We are not sure how he is, so we will have to have his shoulder looked at," Holloway told the Swindon Advertiser. "It has popped out, so I don’t know what that means."
How many players are currently injured?
The situation leaves Swindon potentially without as many as twelve players for their upcoming League Two encounter with York City. This comes despite the club finishing ninth in the final 2025 table with 75 points from 46 games. Their recent form of two losses, two draws and a win highlights the disruption caused by these persistent fitness issues.
There is some positive news. Striker Paul Glatzel is expected to return after struggling with a hamstring injury. Midfielder James Ball and defender Sam Inwood could also be available again soon. Ball missed the Colchester trip due to the birth of a new child, not injury.
What did the manager say about the injuries?
Ian Holloway's frustration with the relentless injury toll was clear. "I am getting sick of this; how is that anything to do with any of my physios or my staff?" he said. "If anyone is out there thinking, ‘Oh, what are they doing?’ how can you prepare for that?"
The list of sidelined players is extensive. Alongside Millard, Gavin Kilkenny and Joel McGregor are also currently unavailable. Supporters can track the full and updated list on the club's injuries page.
Where does this leave Swindon's season?
The mounting absences present a significant challenge as Swindon look to improve on last season's mid-table finish. The team scored 70 goals but conceded 59 across the previous campaign, ending with a +11 goal difference. They finished twelve points behind champions Bromley in the title race, a gap they will aim to close.
Millard's recovery timeline remains uncertain. A minor shoulder issue could keep him out for around four weeks, but a more serious problem would require a longer period of rehabilitation. His absence is a blow for a young player seeking to establish himself.
Who could return to face York City?
The potential returns of Glatzel, Ball and Inwood would provide Holloway with much-needed options. Their experience could be vital in a squad stretched thin. The manager must now assess his available resources ahead of a run of games detailed on the club's fixtures schedule.
Swindon's defensive record last season, with 59 goals conceded, is an area that will need addressing, especially if key defenders remain absent. The current standings show the competitive nature of League Two, where every point is hard-earned. The club's next match is against York City, where they will hope to field a competitive side despite the injury woes.
