Malick Fofana out for at least two weeks as OL near full strength for Angers trip | OneFootball

OL head to Angers on Sunday at 15:00 with a near full squad, although Malick Fofana is sidelined for at least two weeks after an ankle procedure. Paulo Fonseca’s side are seeking to halt an eight-match winless run in all competitions.

According to L'Équipe, Fonseca has almost everyone available for the first time in months. Rémi Himbert injured his right ankle on 12 March against Celta Vigo in the Europa League last-16 first leg, a 1-1 draw, and may not play again this season. Fofana has had painful fixations removed from his right ankle and will be out while the area heals.

Fonseca said it has been a long time since he had such depth, noting that Ernest Nuamah has been out for a year and could return against Lorient on 12 April. He welcomed having attacking options and stressed that competition makes teams stronger.

The coach plans to speak with Nicolas Tagliafico, who returned to Lyon on Friday. The left-back is suspended for three Ligue 1 matches and was sent off in his last two outings, the 0-2 loss to Vigo on 19 March and the 1-2 defeat to Monaco on 22 March. Fonseca felt such lapses cannot recur, saying the experienced defender must keep his balance.

Looking ahead to the final seven matches, Fonseca highlighted the need for better balance. He said OL have been vulnerable to counter-attacks and turnovers, and must counter-press quicker and manage possession phases. Even during a run of 13 wins he felt improvements were needed, and if OL want ambition now, change is required.

Source: L'Équipe