Stags defender Howkins to miss big derby at Notts

Howkins limped off during the second half of Tuesday’s night’s fine 2-0 home Checkatrade Trophy win over League One Oldham after hurting a knee while making a magnificent tackle.

Manager Steve Evans said: “Kyle will miss the game – he will be a couple of weeks.

“It’s his knee. It was the nature of the force of the tackle. It was a fantastic tackle and he just twisted slightly.

“We are probably talking 10 days to two weeks, two and half weeks maximum I think.”

The West Brom youngster was at least boosted by the news this week that Tony Pulis has agreed a deal to keep him at the Hawthorns for the next two and a half years.

Howkins had just agreed a deal with Mansfield to complete the rest of the season on loan with the club and Evans said: “I am very grateful to Tony Pulis.

“He has been a mate of mine for 20-odd years in this game and he has always helped when I have asked.

“Kyle could have chosen two or three options - in the league above - and it helps me when Tony Pulis is batting for Mansfield Town.

“When we came in Kyle was injured and suspended at the same time, so we couldn’t get a good look at him.

“We had to work hard with him on his fitness levels to get him up to match speed and I think he was just starting to become outstanding in a couple of games.

“It’s a shame but he will come back in two or three weeks and be outstanding again.”