CHARLESTON, S.C. – The Charleston Battery announced on Friday that midfielder Aaron Molloy will miss a period of time following a lower leg injury sustained against the Tampa Bay Rowdies last Saturday night but could return to action prior to the end of the 2024 USL Championship regular season.

“The timetable for Molloy’s return this season is still to be determined pending his recovery and rehabilitation, but the club looks forward to seeing him back in action on the pitch before the regular season concludes,” said the Battery in a statement. “The club additionally thanks the talented team at MUSC Health for their care for Molloy as he begins his road to recovery.”

Analysis

A potential return of Aaron Molloy before the end of the current campaign might be the best-case scenario the Battery could have hoped for after he had to be helped from the field late in the first half against the Tampa Bay Rowdies last weekend. The two-time Championship All-League First Team selection has been a key addition for Charleston this season, leading the league with 1,387 completed passes at an 87.9 percent success rate while also ranking first in Chances Created (65) and second in Expected Assists (6.22xA).

The Battery’s acquisition of Jay Chapman on loan from Hartford Athletic on Thursday should offer cover for Molloy while he’s sidelined while Chris Allan and Emilio Ycaza will also be counted on to continue their high levels of performance this campaign. If the Battery remain in contention for a top-two finish in the East, a successful return for Molloy would be a massive boost for their postseason aspirations.