Forest Green Rovers have been dealt a significant setback after summer signing Emeka Obi was ruled out for the remainder of the season with an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.
The club’s manager, Robbie Savage, confirmed that the central defender will face an estimated six to nine months away from competitive football following the injury sustained during the National League opener against FC Halifax Town on Saturday, which Forest Green won 3-2.
Obi, aged 25, joined Forest Green from Kidderminster Harriers over the summer, having previously played for Bury, Liverpool, Wigan Athletic and AFC Fylde. He is due to undergo surgery shortly before commencing his rehabilitation programme.
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“It is very disappointing news,” said Savage. “Our worst fears have been confirmed, and Emeka will be sidelined for six to nine months. It is absolutely devastating for him. He has had a very promising start to his Forest Green career and is understandably gutted, as are we all.
“However, the squad has rallied around him, and he will now have a period of rest before surgery, which we hope will take place as soon as possible.”
Savage expressed his frustration at the succession of long-term injuries his side have endured recently. “Injuries are part and parcel of the game, but unfortunately, at this club, it seems every significant injury results in a lay-off of at least two to three months. Last season we had a number of hamstring injuries that kept players out for lengthy spells. This ACL injury is another severe blow.”
The Forest Green boss remains optimistic about Obi’s recovery, citing examples of players who have returned stronger after injury. “Emeka is a strong individual and will come back fitter and stronger. Look at Sean Etaluku, who missed much of last season but has returned in great shape. We are fortunate to be at a club that genuinely cares about its players. Support is crucial during times like this, and we will ensure Emeka is well looked after mentally and physically.”
With several defenders having left the club during the summer, including the sale of Laurent Mendy to Hearts, the departures of Jordan Moore-Taylor and Ryan Inniss, and the loaning out of Cian Harries to Kidderminster, Forest Green’s defensive options are limited. Alongside Obi and Kyle Ajayi, Welsh prospect Gabe Kircough and Swindon loan signing Filozofe Mabete, who scored on his debut, remain available.
In Obi’s absence, Tate Campbell filled in the defensive role during Saturday’s match. Savage believes Campbell can adapt to the centre-back position but indicated that the club are actively seeking an experienced loan signing.
“We prefer to have at least two players in every position and like to play with four centre-backs. Tate can play at centre half; he has the versatility, as Laurent Mendy showed in previous seasons. However, we are in talks with several clubs – including those in the Premier League and Championship – to secure a loan player. I’ve spoken to recruitment and sporting directors at seven clubs recently, but nothing concrete yet,” Savage revealed.
Forest Green will continue their search to strengthen the squad as they aim to navigate the challenges posed by Obi’s injury setback.