Óskarsson back in training as Real Sociedad boost squad depth
Icelandic forward returns to La Real's group sessions after muscular issues, while Matarazzo calls up youth prospects to cover for suspended Soler and injured Kubo.
Real Sociedad receive a timely boost as Orri Óskarsson rejoins full training following his recent muscle scare against Osasuna.
Icelandic striker back in the fold
After missing Sunday’s victory over Barcelona, Óskarsson has returned to Zubieta training ground alongside his teammates as La Real resumed work following their two-day break. The Icelandic forward appears to have shaken off the muscular problem that forced him off against Osasuna last week—a match where he lasted just five minutes after coming on as a late substitute.
This is particularly good news for the Txuri-urdin, as Óskarsson has endured a frustrating four-month spell on the sidelines with various muscle injuries. The club will be hoping he can finally string together a consistent run of training sessions before gradually returning to match action.
Absences and youth call-ups
While Óskarsson’s return provides a boost, not all news from Zubieta was positive:
- Arsen Zakharyan remains unavailable due to ongoing muscle discomfort
- Take Kubo is sidelined through injury for Sunday’s clash with Celta Vigo
- Carlos Soler will miss the match through suspension
To address these absences, manager Pellegrino Matarazzo has drafted in several youngsters from the B team, including:
- Job Ochieng
- Dani Díaz
- Ibai Aguirre
- Gorka Carrera
The Italian-American gaffer might well include some of these academy products in his matchday squad for Sunday’s fixture at Anoeta, which kicks off at 18:30 local time.
With key players missing, this could be a proper chance for the young guns to show their worth against a Celta side that’s been no mugs this season. The squad depth at La Real is getting a proper test, but Óskarsson’s return is certainly a sight for sore eyes after his lengthy absence.