Perkins worry for Cobblers but Nolan expects others to return

The 22-year-old, who had a fine game against the dangerous Amario Cozier-Duberry, called for the physio with 10 minutes to go at the Toughsheet Community Stadium and could not continue despite several minutes of treatment, with Kamarai Swyer taking his place.

Nolan does not yet know the full extent of the injury but he is hopeful it is nothing serious, saying: "We’ve lost players during this period and Jack Perkins is another one. Three games in a week is ridiculous. It might just be cramp but we'll have to see over the next few days.”

With no game until Walsall visit Sixfields for an EFL Trophy tie next Wednesday, Cobblers have a much-needed opportunity to take stock over the coming days. They are currently without Ethan Wheatley, Michael Forbes, Tyrese Fornah, Cameron McGeehan and Conor McCarthy due to injury but Nolan expects most of those to return before Town’s next league game, although Liam Shaw is unlikely to be back before February.

"I certainly expect quite a few of the injured lads back next week," Nolan added. “I'm going to give the boys a few days off now so they can spend some time with their families.

"It's been a tough 11 days for everyone, including my staff, but they will all have a chance to rest up and see their families and then we'll be back ready for what's going to be another busy period. January's not too bad in terms of games but we have a colossal February. There are some big games coming up but that's what we're in it for.”