Dave Edwards fights fitness battle to play in ‘special’ Shrewsbury v Wolves tie
Dave Edwards is erring on the side of caution as he battles to be involved in Shrewsbury’s FA Cup tie against former club Wolves.
The 32-year-old from Pontesbury injured his groin on his Salop comeback against Charlton 11 days ago.
He was out on the grass in training at Sundorne yesterday and, if he suffers no reaction, will train with his team-mates tomorrow in a bid to make Sam Ricketts’ squad against Premier League Wolves.
Edwards says it would be ‘extra special’ to be involved against the side he played more than 250 times for in nine years.
“It’s still up in the air a little bit at the moment,” said Edwards, who overcame a long-term knee injury before re-signing for Town. “It’s nothing serious but with me being out for so long leading into 2019, I think the physios have taken the right precautions to make sure I’m available for the rest of the season rather than getting me back as quick as possible.
“I’ve been building up my fitness. I feel like I’m at a good place but I’ve got to see how it goes. I really feel I need a good two or three days training to be in consideration.
“It’s a bit time critical at the moment! I’m out on the grass again (yesterday), hopefully I can come through and look to train tomorrow.
“But the bigger picture for me is being fit for the rest of the season. It’s a game I’d love to be involved in but, at the same time, if I’m not right I won’t put my hand up to be involved.
“I want to be fit for the rest of the season and give my all to Shrewsbury.”
The former Wales international added: “
"Either way I’ll be at the stadium enjoying the atmosphere. My ties to Wolves, nearly 10 amazing years there, it would be extra special to get on the pitch at some point.”
Ricketts admitted he faces a tough decision of head-versus-heart when considering Edwards’ selection. He said: “It’s a tough one because as much as everyone would love him to be involved I don’t want to rush him back in and be out for longer.”