Josh Stokes facing race against time to feature in final Cambridge United game against Birmingham City before returning to parent club Bristol City

A ‘late call’ is set to be made on whether or not Josh Stokes will feature in a Cambridge United shirt one last time.

The playmaker, who has been one of the only stand-out performers in a tough season for the U’s, is due to return to his parent club Bristol City after this weekend’s clash against League One champions Birmingham City at the Cledara Abbey Stadium.

However, having been forced off with a back injury during last Saturday’s at 2-1 defeat at Burton Albion – when Cambridge’s relegation was confirmed – it is not clear if the 21-year-old will be passed fit to feature.

Cambridge head coach Neil Harris said: “I’m really hopeful that he’s got some involvement in him for Saturday.

“It would be really nice for him to finish in front our fanbase and I really think our fans would like to give him an ovation as well and say thank you for what he’s brought to us.

“But we don’t know. He’s not been on the training pitch yet this week and as we sit here on Thursday afternoon, that’s not a good place for a footballer to be in. We’ll have to see.

“It’s a really, really minor thing. It’s a back spasm and nerve problem, so there’s no lasting damage to him.

“It’s just what he looks like after sleeping tonight and training tomorrow. It will be a real late call.”

Goalkeeper Jack Stevens will miss the game due to the concussion protocol, while Emmanuel Longelo cannot feature due to being on loan from Birmingham City.

No other injured players are expected to return for the season finale.