Chile & France Stars Out For Inter Milan Vs Udinese Serie A Clash – Ex Ajax Midfielder Could Start In Attack | OneFootball

Jurgen Ekkelenkamp could start in attack for Udinese in this evening’s Serie A return to action against Inter Milan.

Today’s print edition of Milan-based newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, via FCInterNews, report that Friulani coach Kosta Runjaic could use the 25-year-old as an attacking solution with Alexis Sanchez and Florian Thauvin out.

Udinese will be missing a couple attacking player this evening against Inter Milan.

Former Nerazzurri and Arsenal forward Alexis Sanchez will be out. The 36-year-old has a calf problem.

Moreover, Florian Thauvin has not been able to recover from plantar fasciitis in time during the international break. He’ll miss his team’s first match back.

Ekkelenkamp Could Start In Attack In Inter Milan Vs Udinese Clash

Thauvin’s absence in particular deprives Udinese coach Runjaic of a player who has been a pillar of his starting eleven all season.

Therefore, the coach will have to find a workaround as far as who starts alongside Lorenzo Lucca.

UDINE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 16: Florian Thauvin of Udinese in action during the Serie A match between Udinese and Empoli at Stadio Friuli on February 16, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)

And according to the Gazzetta, Runjaic could opt to play a midfielder out of position.

Former Ajax, Ajax, and Hertha Berlin midfielder Jurgen Ekkelenkamp has played in a central role in Udinese’ 3-5-2 system throughout this season.

However, the Dutchman is also capable of playing in a more attacking position.

Therefore, the Gazzetta report, Runjaic may opt to deploy Ekkelenkamp as a second striker. Rather than as part of the midfield trio against Inter this evening.