Wasps' Alfie Barbeary to spend time on sidelines following ankle injury

Wasps have suffered a setback after Alfie Barbeary is expected to be on the sidelines for an extended period following an ankle injury.

The 20-year-old sustained the blow during the recently concluded Gallagher Premiership game against Sale Sharks where he was replaced in the 50th minute and now will consult a specialist to assess the extent of the damage.

According to Wasps head coach Lee Blackett, Barbeary could need six to eight weeks of rehabilitation.

“Alfie has a syndesmosis injury. Whenever you have that injury it’s not the greatest but it’s not an out-and-out disaster.

“It’s hard to know how long he’ll be out for as there are still question marks as to whether he needs surgery. It’s a guessing game until he sees the specialist.

“Like any player he’ll be frustrated. I’ve been really pleased with Alfie recently – he’s got better and better and had big impacts on the game.

“I’m disappointed for Alfie but we’ve got to make sure that he’s a better player when he comes back.

“We’ll work really hard behind the scenes, for however long he’s out for, to make sure he comes back better than when he left us.”

Wasps are positioned seventh in the Gallagher Premiership table with two wins from four games and will face Exeter Chiefs next in the fifth round on 2nd January.