Lens Confronts Setbacks in Preparation for Lille Clash
RC Lens encountered difficulties during their final training session before the highly anticipated Derby du Nord against Lille OSC. The intense practice, conducted in front of supporters, resulted in two significant player injuries.
Juma Bah, on loan from Manchester City, suffered a severe dental injury, losing two teeth in a collision. He was hospitalized and will be unavailable for the match, with his return to training not expected until next week.
Jonathan Gradit also sustained a facial injury requiring stitches. While his participation remains uncertain, he may be included in the squad due to limited options in the center-back position.
These unexpected absences pose a challenge for manager Will Still as he finalizes his team selection. The injuries have forced adjustments to Lens’ defensive strategy for this crucial fixture.
Projected Lens Starting Lineup
Goalkeeper: Mathew Ryan
Defenders: Deiver Machado, Facundo Medina, Malang Sarr, Ruben Aguilar
Midfielders: Andy Diouf, Adrien Thomasson, Neil El-Aynaoui, Nampalys Mendy, Florian Sotoca
Forward: Wesley Saïd
Despite these setbacks, Lens remains determined to perform well in this important local derby against their rivals Lille.