Imps run rule over left back Giddings

Last updated : 24 June 2008 By Gary Hutchinson

The ex-England youth international is set to link up with the Imps for pre-season training as he looks to turn around a career blighted by injuries.

Giddings made 16 appearances for the Sky Blues, but his career has since stalled after a succesion of injuries hit him. However Peter Jackson has seen enough to convince him that the 22-year-old could be answer to the left back spot vacated by Lee Ridley.

"Stuart has agreed to join us for pre-season" said Jacko, "He's had a few injuries and this will give him the opportunity to improve his fitness. We get a chance to have a look at him and see how he does. I've kept a close watch on his career and I originally wanted to sign him when I was manager of Huddersfield."

Jacko continued by identifying Giddings position as one he needs to fill.

"Obviously, I'm looking for a left-back and if he proves his fitness and does well then there could be a deal here for him."

Giddings is a player whose early career showed much promise, a local born Coventry youngster has suffered with long-term knee ligament injury.

The left-back broke into the first-team for his debut at the end of the 2003-2004 season, when he came on as a late substitute in the Coventry final match of the season. His talents were recognised at international level, Giddings represented England at a variety of age groups. He was bitterly disappointed to miss out on the 2005 Under 19 European Championships through injury, when he would have undoubtedly played a part.

He returned to action as a substitute during a match with Cardiff in February but spent the rest of the campaign regaining his fitness ahead of a crucial 07/08 campaign where he hoped to rescue his Coventry career.

Sadly he struggled once again with injury during the 2007-2008 season and once he regained fitness he was sent out on loan to Oldham. However he made just three appearnces for the Latics before returning to The Ricoh Arena only to be told by manager Chris Coleman that he would be one of eight players whose contracts would not be renewed at the end of the season.

Oldham fan Matt Goodhall was last night praised Giddings in the few outings he had at Boundary Park, saying: 'He looked a useful player'.