League 2 star Jodi Jones has called for more protection from officials after sustaining a serious injury in a match against Gillingham. The Notts County forward, who was named PFA League 2 Player of the Year last season with 24 assists and eight goals, suffered a fractured tibia following a late challenge during their 1-0 loss to Gillingham.
Jones, 26, had already scored four goals this season before the injury, which occurred in the 91st minute of the game. Notts County confirmed that Jones will be “unavailable until the new year.” The club stated, “The winger couldn’t continue after receiving a heavy challenge in our recent league fixture against Gillingham and scans have revealed that he is facing a spell on the sidelines.”
Jones expressed his frustration with the lack of protection, stating, “It hurts that little bit more when I’m constantly asking for more protection and for opposition players to not be allowed constant free hits. Unfortunately, this is something that gets brushed aside and results in time off the pitch.”
The challenge from Gillingham’s Jacob Wakeling did not result in a card from referee Lee Swaby, adding to Notts County fans’ frustrations after a disallowed goal and a waved-off penalty appeal earlier in the game.
The EFL/FA not to mention GFC, Wakeling and the match officials should be taking action against Jones for his unnecessary, provocactive and arguably libellous comments. It was a fair and clean tackle – beautifully timed. He needs to grow up, show some class and man up.
And I’d advise kickpoll to consider the wording of its article in describing it as a “late challenge (you clearly haven’t seen the footage)”. You could easily end up in the libel courts as Jones may do. Have a look at the below – beautifully timed clean tackle. Bad luck Jones. Hope he enjoys his break in more ways than one!:
https://x.com/deutsch_gills/status/1837936089241468965?s=46