 CHRIS HUGHTON is sweating on the fitness of in-form Toon striker Peter Lovenkrands ahead of tomorrow’s clash with Bristol City. The Dane picked up a knock on his calf against Scunthorpe, meaning Hughton must re-assess his options for Ashton Gate. Morning reports indicated that Lovenkrands had sustained an ankle injury and undergone a scan, but United today confirmed this was not true. If the Dane is ruled out, Hughton may revert to the 4-4-1-1 formation and play Kevin Nolan off the shoulder of Andy Carroll, with Nicky Butt poised for a return, or hand Leon Best or Nile Ranger a start alongside the Geordie gem. Meanwhile, Alan Smith will not be back in action until United’s crucial game with Nottingham Forest at the end of the month. The battling midfielder has not played since the Magpies’ 2-1 away win at Watford after picking up an ankle injury in training. And Hughton has confirmed he is unwilling to risk one of his key men tomorrow or in Tuesday’s trip to Doncaster Rovers. Hughton told the Chronicle today: “He’ll train on Monday, which probably rules him out of the next two games. “We’ll have him available for Forest.” That means Hughton will stick with in-form midfield battler Danny Guthrie tomorrow. Hughton added: “I would rather have Alan available but Danny and Kevin (Nolan) are both playing very well at the moment. “Danny’s settled into that position and he’s enjoying his football at the moment. “He’s having a good run, and he gives us something different.” | 
Article
