Only a few weeks left in the current seasons and teams are more than ever having to find alternatives to their unavailable players. Here is a look at the most significant absences in European football this weekend.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlainn will be unavailable when Arsenal take on Stoke on Saturday. The player sustained a hamstring injury in the 2-0 victory over Southampton. It is yet to be seen if the player will return for this season.
Leicester will have to manage for the remaining games without Danny Drinkwater. The midfielder has been one of the team’s top players. However, the player sustained a thigh strain in the game against Watford. He should be back in training in around one month.
Lucas Digne suffered a hamstring injury in Barcelona’s victory over Villareal. The player had to be substituted. The injury was confirmed by Barcelona through an official statement.
Real Madrid’s Raphael Varane is back in training. However, doubts linger over Gareth Bale and Dani Carvajal’s presences after injuries had sidelined both players.
Sami Khedira of Juventus sustained a hamstring injury against Monaco in the Champions League. Juve staff have confirmed the injury is not serious. He might be rested in Sunday’s derby against Roma, but may make an appearance in next week’s Coppa Italia final. Claudio Marchisio may also miss the game against Roma. The player’s situation is currently being evaluated by medical staff. He is expected to play the final against Lazio.
Roma have their own worries for the game against Juve. Prolific striker Edin Dzeko will be unavailable due to a calf injury. Dzeko has been vital for his team, scoring 27 goals in the Serie A this season.
West Ham will be without captain Mark Noble for the last two EPL games. Noble will undergo surgery for abdominal issues. Club staff reported the player had played through pain in recent games. Medical officials strongly advised the player get the surgery sooner rather than later.
Liverpool could be without Brazilian stars Roberto Firmino and Lucas Leiva. Both are dealing with minor injury concerns. Their absences have not been confirmed by the club, however it would represent an important step back in helping the team achieve their desired top four finish in the Premier League.
