Huddersfield Town faces a setback as Dutch defender Radinio Balker is sidelined until the New Year after breaking his ankle during a pre-season game against Harrogate Town on Saturday.
Balker, who joined Huddersfield from Groningen on a three-year deal in January, was injured in the second half of their 3-2 win, only the club’s second friendly of the off-season. Scans confirmed a fracture, and he will undergo surgery.
Head coach Michael Duff commented, “I’ve really enjoyed getting to know and working with Radinio over the past few weeks, and I’ve spoken to him already to make sure that he is as okay as possible in himself following the injury.”
“Coming back from something like this isn’t easy, but we will do everything we can to make sure that journey is as straightforward as possible for him, and we look forward to having him back within the group when possible.”
Balker added, “This is a difficult moment and an experience no player wishes to have, and I am hurt that I cannot continue to prepare for the new season with my team after enjoying an exciting start to pre-season together.
“I must now take the time to heal and work with the doctors and medics to ensure I can play again as soon as possible, which I will do with full commitment. I want to thank all of my coaches, teammates, and Club staff for their care and kindness, but most of all our amazing supporters for your well wishes and concern.
“While I won’t be able to start the season as planned, I will still be alongside you supporting the boys whenever possible.”
The 25-year-old has had a tough time with injuries since arriving in England, including a muscle problem towards the end of last season. He has made seven appearances for the Terriers, with his last one being on March 29.
Town triumphed at the weekend thanks to goals from Danny Ward, Rhys Healey, and Lasse Sorensen, but Balker’s injury overshadowed the victory.
Duff’s side will head out for their tour of Austria at the end of this week, with friendlies announced against teams from Bundesliga.2, Serie A, and the Cypriot First Division during their Austrian tour.
Town kick off with a fixture against Aris Limassol at St Ulrich on Monday, July 22 (6pm kick-off). Duff’s side then face German outfit Hertha Berlin in Kossen on Thursday, July 25, with a 1pm kick-off. Huddersfield will then play against Italian side US Lecce three days later on Sunday, July 28 (2.30pm), in Jenbach.