STRAIN FOR SAMUEL, WILL RETURN IN THREE WEEKS
“If a warrior like Samuel asked to come out then it must be very serious. It would be a huge loss.” That was Andrea Stramaccioni after Inter-Siena and his fear has come true. The examinations which he underwent yesterday have revealed that the 34 year-old central defender has suffered a strained adductor of the right leg. The Argentinian will be out three weeks and will miss the game against Udinese (also suspended), Fiorentina and Cesena. He could return to play versus Parma on May 2 or the derby on the 6th.
More Chivu than Rano On Wednesday, Stramaccioni replaced Samuel with Nagatomo and moved Chivu alongside Lucio. It is very possible that this would be the choice on Saturday. Also because that the Bianconeri have a very speedy players up front in Di Natale and Barretto and so the duo of Lucio-Ranocchia could be a risk.
Obi decisive If Stankovic left the field exhausted against Siena and Cambiasso will seal his third game in eight days, in the midfield what remains is one position. Obi, again, seems to be the favorite over Guarin and Poli. Recall that he was taken out of the game due to cramps. But the 20 year-old could be the surprise weapon for a less offensive trident with Milito and Zarate. The most likely solution remains one of Alvarez or Forlan.
Sneijder perhaps in Florence In all of this, the team is still waiting for, other than Maicon, the return of Sneijder. Yesterday, the Dutchman played for the first time in a practice match after awhile. He could return against Fiorentina. Then it is up to Stramaccioni to find ways to re-integrate him into the lineup.