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Napoli coach Luciano Spalletti admitted it would be a big blow not having striker Victor Osimhen around, following the Nigerian forward’s injury.
Osimhen will miss Napoli’s home clash against AC Milan on Sunday as a result of the injury.
The 24-year-old was reported to have complained of abductor strain which was later confirmed through tests.
Osimhen has missed training since returning from international duty this week.
He recently featured in both legs of Nigeria’s 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against the Djurtus of Guinea-Bissau.
Coach Spalletti looked ahead to the first match back after the international break in a press conference on Saturday. They will have to proceed without their talisman Osimhen.
“We’ve got a triple-header coming up against Milan. Being without Osimhen is a big blow, but Giovanni Simeone has proved his worth. He’s a striker who can use his head or his feet,” the coach said according to an interview published on the club’s website.
“It’s true. When we’re without Victor, the team have been able to make up for it and come out winners. We always approach our games in the Napoli way and players like Cholito have also made a huge difference this year.
Staying positive, the coach maintained that his players were up to task despite Osimhen’s absence.
“This team can handle anyone being missing because everyone has given something extra this year and we’ve played really well, even when facing top opposition.
“I’ll reiterate that losing Osimhen is a big blow, but Simeone can play with his head or his feet. Right from the start, he took on the role he was meant to have and when someone is intelligent, they manage to make their mark even when they don’t get much opportunity.
“In terms of the way we’ll play, not much will change. Giovanni can go deep, protect the ball, be involved in great link-up play and score goals. Obviously, Osimhen is very quick, and you don’t get them much quicker than that.
“This year, Simeone deserved to get more minutes than he has, but it’s tough when you have such a star like Osimhen in the squad too.
“We are confident. They’re a triple threat because they’re the reigning champions, they eliminated Tottenham in the Champions League and they’ve strengthened their squad since becoming the Italian champion.