Absent since a muscle injury sustained in the win over KuPS, Paul Onuachu could be back in Trabzonspor’s matchday squad as early as Monday against Rizespor, German coach Thomas Reis has indicated.
The German coach has given an update on the recovery of his Nigerian centre-forward, reports Ajansspor. The date of Monday 26 October, for the visit of Rizespor on matchday 9 of the Süper Lig, is now the target for a possible return to the matchday squad.
The 2.01 m striker was injured as early as the 10th minute, after scoring the opening goal in the 4-2 win over Finland’s KuPS. That muscle problem ruled him out of the visit of Scotland’s Heart of Midlothian in the Europa Conference League, and then the derby against Besiktas in the Turkish league.
A return conditional on tests
The Turkish medical staff must still carry out the final physical tests at the end of the week to confirm the Nigerian international’s participation in the next round of fixtures, according to Ajansspor. Nothing is settled yet: the return of the former Southampton and Genk player remains subject to the doctors’ green light.
Thomas Reis himself set out a clear alternative, quoted by Ajansspor and Premium Times: “If Onuachu can’t be with us for the match against Rizespor, he will be back with us for the next match.”
Franculino Djú holds the fort
In the Nigerian’s absence, Trabzonspor can rely on the efficiency of Franculino Djú, who keeps scoring, reports Foot-Africa.com. The Black Sea club are right at the top of the Turkish Süper Lig this season thanks to their prolific attack, according to Ajansspor.
Yet Onuachu’s profile remains a structuring element of Trabzon’s hold-up play, stresses Premium Times. His return, if confirmed, would add another option to an attack already supplied by Djú.
Rizespor, then Gaziantep in their sights
The first test therefore comes on Monday 26 October, with the visit of Rizespor on matchday 9 of the Süper Lig.
If the player is not 100% ready on Monday, his return will be put back to Sunday 1 November against Gaziantep FK, according to Premium Times.