The agent of Krystian Bielik has criticised Derby County for playing the midfielder in an U23 game which resulted in the player picking up an ACL injury, Sportowefakty report.
Bielik came back from a three-game suspension and was in contention to play against Championship rivals Hull City at Pride Park this coming weekend.
Derby opted to play Bielik against Tottenham Hotspur U23 on Monday. Presumably, the decision was made so the Poland international can gain some extra fitness.
It back-fired, however, as Bielik picked up a knee ligament injury.
Speaking to reporters, his agent has criticised the club’s decision to include him for the U23s as the Rams will now be without his services for the rest of the season.
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Krystian was getting ready for Saturday’s match with Hull. He could easily handle it by training normally. In the meetings of younger players, on a lower level, the game is completely different. I believe that this Monday session did not make sense.
Bielik joined Derby from Arsenal last summer for a projected £10 million fee.
The 22-year-old has battled fitness ever since moving to Pride Park. However, when approaching his top form, you can see the quality he adds to the team.
Bielik can play either in central defence or as a holding midfielder. He has started 19 Championship games for Derby this season, averaging 2.7 tackles per game.
The Pole’s ability to break up play and set Derby on the counterattack is impressive. However, his aggression makes him vulnerable to committing fouls and receiving injures.
His absence will be felt. In his place, Derby academy star Max Bird has pushed through to the first team. Graeme Shinnie is also another option when he returns from injury.
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