Sunderland goalkeeper Nathan Bishop to miss Cambridge United’s League One clash against Charlton Athletic

Cambridge United will continue to be without Nathan Bishop for this weekend’s visit of Charlton Athletic – with a potential return date for the goalkeeper set to become clearer over the coming days.

The Sunderland loanee missed last weekend’s 1-0 victory over Shrewsbury Town with an ankle injury that he sustained during the 2-2 draw with Wrexham earlier this month.

And while the complaint is not thought to be overly serious, the 25-year-old is set to meet with a specialist today (Thursday) to determine the full extent of the problem.

U’s head coach Neil Harris said: “He’s had a scan and there’s no serious long-term damage, which is very fortunate and we’re very pleased about.

“He’s seeing a specialist to get a timeframe and a guide on that. I couldn’t say he’s going to play again this season, but what I do know is there’s nothing serious there that’s going to affect going into next season or anything like that.

“I’m hoping that he’s going to be available – not this weekend – but for the Easter weekend. I should have a lot clearer picture by Saturday.

“Bish is one that will knock on my door and want to play. In a real loveable way he’s not thinking about next week or next season, he’s just thinking about Saturday afternoon and wanting to play football.

“He’s been brilliant and it’s an absolute testament to him and his football club that he’s willing to push himself as a person.

“It’s me who is saying to him ‘no, let’s get this looked at properly and be careful’. He’s a real good lad and he’ll be pushing, but we’ll be guided by his appointment (with the specialist).”

In other injury news, Sullay Kaikai could return to the squad for the Charlton clash, while Danny Andrew and Shayne Lavery have both taken a full part in training this week. Neither player will be ready for the weekend, but they could be involved over the Easter period.