Valencia hit by flu outbreak ahead of Celta Vigo clash
Masks return as Valencia's squad battles ongoing flu virus with Comert and Ugrinic ruled out of Saturday's trip to Balaídos, adding to Corberán's selection headaches.
Valencia’s ongoing battle with a flu outbreak continues as the squad donned masks once again before their journey to Vigo for Saturday’s clash with Celta.
Flu takes its toll
The Valencia medical team were distributing face masks before the team coach departed for the airport, trying to prevent further spread of the virus that’s been plaguing the squad. It’s a proper mare for Carlos Corberán, who’s already seen his options limited for the Balaídos encounter.
Eray Comert and Filip Ugrinic have been ruled out completely, both suffering with fever and flu symptoms that kept them from Friday’s training session. The pair were sent home to avoid infecting teammates and join goalkeeper Dimitrievski on the absentee list.
This flu situation is becoming a bit of a recurring nightmare for Los Che:
- Pepelu and Hugo Duro were affected last week but have recovered in time to start
- Duro was spotted wearing a mask during travel, along with André Almeida and Lucas Beltrán
- The previous Madrid trip saw Luis Rioja miss out entirely
- José Gayà struggled through the Atlético match after being weakened by fever
- Javi Guerra had previously suffered similar symptoms
Tactical tweaks expected
The combination of these health issues and Corberán’s tactical planning could see Valencia line up in a 1-5-3-2 formation at Balaídos. Interestingly, club captain Gayà might find himself on the bench as a tactical decision rather than health-related.
César Tárrega is another who could start as a substitute due to muscular discomfort that risks developing into a more serious injury if not managed carefully.
Squad list
Goalkeepers: Agirrezabala, Rivero, Vicent Abril
Defenders: Thierry, Foulquier, Gayá, Diakhaby, Tárrega, Copete, Rubo Iranzo
Midfielders: Pepelu, Guerra, Almeida, Santamaría, Rioja, Diego López, Lucas Núñez
Forwards: Hugo Duro, Raba, Lucas Beltrán, Ramazani, Danjuma
Unavailable: Dimitrievski, Ugrinic, Comert