Athletic Club has confirmed that midfielder Canales will be available for the next derby against Real Sociedad, after overcoming a series of doubts that arose in recent days. The German coach, Lluís Terzic, has clarified that the injury to the Barrika striker and the health problem of the winger Djaló have been the only factors that generated uncertainty in the red and white team.
On the last day of training in Lezama, Terzic was in charge of clearing up doubts about the availability of Canales and Djaló. Canales, who had been out of action due to a soleus injury, has completed the last two training sessions and is in top shape. The coach has indicated that his absence was due to a lack of pain and that his presence is essential, especially in the absence of Galarreta, who is also unavailable. “Peio is very skilled with the ball, he gives us confidence and creativity and can play in various positions such as 6, 8 or 10,” said Terzic, highlighting the player's versatility.
For his part, Djaló has recovered from the infection that had affected him after his call-up with Guinea-Bissau. The medical department has given the green light for him to return to training and participate in matches, although the striker still needs to regain his rhythm and catch up with the rest of the team. “He has had some medical problems in recent weeks, he has been monitored and tested every day,” explained the coach, emphasizing that Djaló will not be part of the list for the duel with Real Sociedad.
As for Barrika, Terzic explained that the player had “some problems after the last game” and that, together with the injury he suffered more than a month ago, it generated a small alert. To avoid overloading the player, it was decided that he would not travel to Barcelona to face Prat, along with other teammates such as Laporte and Yuri. “We made the decision that neither he nor a couple of other teammates will travel so that they would have more rest between the two League games,” the coach clarified.
With Canales and Djaló fit and Barrika not on the squad list, Athletic is preparing for the derby with Real Sociedad. The coach has indicated that the call will be made first thing tomorrow morning, and fans can expect a team that has the availability of its key players after overcoming recent setbacks.