A key member of the defensive ranks at La Liga giants Barcelona is expected to drop to the bench for the club’s next outing.
That’s according to Diario Sport, who point towards Alejandro Balde as the player in question.
Left-back Balde for his part suffered a fitness setback on Wednesday night.
En route to Barcelona’s hard-fought victory over Benfica in the Champions League, the Spanish international suffered a heavy blow to the ankle.
As much left Balde requiring treatment on the back of the full-time whistle in Lisbon, throwing his status for this weekend’s clash with Osasuna up in the air.
The 21-year-old managed to play his part in training in Catalunya’s capital earlier today.
But according to Sport, Balde will not be risked on Saturday night, to ensure his full fitness for next week’s return leg against Benfica.
Instead, Gerard Martín will be rewarded for his solid recent performances with another start at left-back.
Conor Laird – GSFN
