Azpilicueta targets Sevilla’s crunch Real Sociedad clash | OneFootball

César Azpilicueta is pushing to be involved in Sevilla’s crunch meeting with Real Sociedad on Monday, according to AS.

He has been Sevilla’s most dependable defender when on the pitch, but muscle problems have restricted him to 15 LaLiga outings at 36. He will not meet the appearance trigger for an automatic extension, and his deal expires on 30 June.

With an immaculate career behind him, captain at Chelsea then a notable spell at Atlético de Madrid, he is determined not to sign off with a relegation. His talismanic influence could be crucial if Sevilla are to pull off a miracle.

Azpilicueta started during Sevilla’s longest unbeaten league streak this season, four draws and one win across Girona, Alavés, Getafe, Betis and Rayo. He then rested at Camp Nou, before a 37th minute injury against Valencia. Immediately after he went off, his side conceded the opener in a decisive 0-2.

Registered for matchday four, Sevilla drew with Elche with him in the side, then beat Alavés, Rayo and Barcelona. They lost to Villarreal after being reduced to 10 men, and against Mallorca on matchday nine he departed early with his first Nervión injury, a 1-3 defeat.

Late fitness setbacks have repeatedly ruled him out hours before kick-off, often to Sevilla’s cost. Luis García Plaza has praised him in press conferences and is managing him carefully to have him available for that game.

Source: AS