News Focus
- New Zealand international Ben Old is struggling with a hamstring injury
- Manager Philippe Montanier will make a late decision on the winger’s availability
- Florian Tardieu returns to the squad but lacks the fitness for a full match
- Djylian N’Guessan is unavailable for the first leg at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard
- French outlet L’Equipe predicts Old will start at left-back despite the fitness worry
Saint-Étienne manager Philippe Montanier faces a selection dilemma ahead of Thursday’s crucial Ligue 1 relegation playoff first leg against OGC Nice. New Zealand winger Ben Old remains doubtful for the clash at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard after picking up a hamstring problem.
Montanier confirmed that medical staff will assess the 22-year-old right up until kick-off before making a final call on his involvement. Despite this uncertainty, respected French publication L’Equipe believes Old will recover in time to start on the left side of the defence.
The hosts will definitely be without midfielder Djylian N’Guessan, who is ruled out through injury. There is positive news regarding Florian Tardieu, though, as the midfielder returns to the squad following his own spell on the sidelines. However, Montanier admits the veteran cannot last a full 90 minutes yet, suggesting he will begin on the substitutes’ bench.
According to L’Equipe, Les Verts are expected to line up as follows: Gautier Larsonneur between the posts; a back four comprising Old, Maxime Bernauer, Julien Le Cardinal and Kévin Pedro; a midfield trio of Aimen Moueffek, Abdoulaye Kanté and Augustine Boakye; with Zuriko Davitashvili, Lucas Stassin and Irvin Cardona in attacking positions.
The victor of this two-legged tie will secure their spot in France’s top flight for next season.