Several absences to deplore for the Nantes reception

After a close but encouraging defeat against Paris Saint-Germain (1-2), Eirik Horneland's AS Saint-Étienne is preparing to host FC Nantes this Sunday at Geoffroy-Guichard. However, several major absences could weaken the Greens for this crucial meeting. Despite the progress shown, ASSE will have to face a new major challenge against the Canaries.

A group decimated by the flu

According to information from Progressthe training of the Stéphanois was marked by several notable absences. Besides the usual casualties like Ben Old, Ibrahima Wadji and Yvann MaçonIt is Aimen Moueffek who was missing. The midfielder is said to be the victim of the flu. This epidemic seems to be rampant within the group, pushing the staff to limit contact to preserve the remaining workforce.

Essential precautions

Faced with this delicate situation, the workouts are adapted to protect the organisms. To combat the cold, the Stéphanois compete in short, high-intensity games, reports Le Progrès. Attack-defense exercises on two goals back to back allow you to maintain a sustained pace without putting too much strain on the players. Thomas Monconduitwho had resumed the race, seems spared from this wave of flu for the moment.

A major challenge

Despite these health hazardsASSE will have to be solid against FC Nantes, a team with a reputation for toughness. Horneland will certainly rely on physical freshness of its able-bodied players to try to win at home. A victory would allow the Greens to confirm their recovery and move closer to the soft underbelly of the ranking.