Zola expecting trio back soon

Gianfranco Zola says that three members of his squad that have suffered medium-term injuries should be back sooner rather than later.

Skipper John Eustace, fellow central midfielder Prince Buaben and Geoffrey Mujangi Bia have all been sidelined with injury issues more serious than first thought by the Hornet's medical team.

Eustace, 32, has not been seen since the opening day victory at Crystal Palace at the beginning of August thanks to a back problem.

The Solihull-born midfielder had an operation to correct the issue a few weeks ago and is now back in training.

Ghanaian midfielder Buaben suffered a tear in the thigh and is yet to feature this season as a result.

Finally, attacker Mujangi Bia has been sidelined with a strain which has meant he has been unable to feature since making his debut against Bradford City in the Capital One Cup.

Speaking to The Watford Observer, Zola explained the issue with each player:

"John`s been having treatment and he`s started training on his own. It shouldn`t be long - I don`t know exactly how long but it shouldn`t be long,' explained Zola.

The Italian continued: "The problem with Prince was the injury was more serious than we thought but he shouldn`t be long as well. It might be a couple of weeks but it`s been a bad injury,' he admitted.

Regarding Mujangi Bia, Zola confirmed that the Belgian is back training on his own and 'shouldn't be long' in making his first-team comeback.

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.