Valverde boosted by key returns for Sevilla clash, but Laporte still sidelined
Athletic Club head to the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuan with Yuri, Nico Williams and Berenguer back, though Laporte and Iñaki Williams remain unavailable for selection.
Ernesto Valverde’s squad has received a timely boost ahead of their tricky away trip to Sevilla, with three key players returning to the fold – though the gaffer still can’t call on Aymeric Laporte for Saturday’s clash.
Lions looking to roar again
Athletic Club are desperate to arrest their worrying domestic form when they travel to the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuan this weekend. The Basque outfit have hit a proper rough patch in La Liga, losing three of their last four matches – a right old mare for a side with European ambitions.
They’ll be aiming to complete a hat-trick of victories at Sevilla’s ground, having won on their last two visits to Andalusia.
Triple boost for Valverde
The good news for the Bilbao side is the return of three crucial players who missed the midweek European fixture against Atalanta:
- Yuri Berchiche - The experienced left-back returns to bolster the defence
- Nico Williams - The electric winger is back in contention
- Álex Berenguer - Another attacking option restored to the squad
All three have recovered from their respective niggles and have been named in Valverde’s travelling party, giving the boss some much-needed options as they look to get back to winning ways.
Notable absentees
However, it’s not all rosy in the garden. Athletic will still be without:
-
Aymeric Laporte - The Spanish international has been gradually reintegrating with the group during recent training sessions but isn’t quite ready for competitive action. Valverde is hopeful of having the defender available for their upcoming Champions League clash with Sporting CP.
-
Iñaki Williams - The captain remains on the treatment table, continuing his recovery from a mild to moderate calf injury in his left leg. His absence is a proper blow for the Basque side.
Youth gets a chance
Valverde has called up several youngsters to pad out the squad, including reserve team defenders Jon de Luis and Iker Monreal, midfielder Selton Sánchez, and forward Asier Hierro.
With European commitments stretching resources thin, these academy products could get their chance to shine if things go according to plan in Seville.