PAOK: The left end of the defense is a puzzle for the derby with AEK

Razvan Lucescu begins PAOK’s preparation for the derby with AEK, trying to find solutions for the two sides of his defense. And when on the right wing, Joan Sastre’s option on the left with Rafa Soares is the only one available, things seem more complicated.

Because the fact that the Portuguese declared his unfitness to compete before the derby with Olympiacos because he was unwell makes his activation seem doubtful. If his situation has changed and the Romanian coach trusts him, after some time Rafa Soares will return to the squad at least for the game against AEK and will call up himself for the XI.

Otherwise, Lucescu will have to resort to alchemy again. The most suitable is the one tested in the match against Asteras Tripoli with Andrija Zivkovic’s withdrawal.

What’s going on with Zivkovic and Nesberg

Except that the Serb is not a matter of course for the double-header derby. And that’s because he’s struggling with this very painful problem in his big toe.

Živkovic went with the help of tuba and went to tests that were clear. However, his participation is assessed based on his resistance to pain and, if necessary, a splint is used where there is no longer a nail.

So it shouldn’t be considered unlikely that Razvan Lucescu will turn to Ivan Nesberg for a solution. The Norwegian, who was out of action against Asteras Tripoli, has made several appearances in Valerenga during his career, covering the left end of defence.

Statistically, of the 152 appearances at his ex-club, he has even recorded one goal and one assist. The last time he played on the left was of course 3 years ago in a game against Lillestrom in 2019.

What is certain is that Lucescu will find it difficult enough to fill the gaps created by the absence of Lyratzis and Tsaousis at the ends of his defense, whom he can count on after the break for the World Cup finals.