Corinthians hopeful over Yuri Alberto return for Santos clash | OneFootball

Corinthians are hopeful Yuri Alberto could return for Sunday’s clássico against Santos in the Brasileirão, the striker having been out since 30 July with a grade 2 injury to his right thigh.

According to Meu Timao, he stepped up his recovery over the weekend with individual work at CT Joaquim Grava as he chases minutes in the derby. Academy players, including under-17 midfielder Darllyson, joined him and posted images of the sessions.

His camp are optimistic he could start the physical transition phase this week before rejoining the group. The squad are due back at the training centre on Wednesday after two days off following Sunday’s defeat to Coritiba.

The initial plan mapped out a six-week recovery, which would leave the centre-forward ideally ready only for the Libertadores quarter-finals against Estudiantes of Argentina between 9 and 16 September.

Yuri Alberto suffered the setback late last month during a 0-0 draw with Athletico Paranaense at Neo Química Arena. He came on at half-time, felt discomfort after 30 minutes, requested an immediate change and left the pitch in tears.

Earlier this year he sustained a similar grade 2 problem in his left thigh against São Bernardo in the Paulistão on 15 February, again as a substitute. He returned on 19 March against Chapecoense in the Campeonato Brasileiro.

Despite his lay-off he remains Corinthians’ top scorer this season with eight goals in 33 appearances, two ahead of defender Gustavo Henrique. Head coach Fernando Diniz has indicated he wants to fit the number nine and Memphis Depay together from the start.

Corinthians host Santos on Sunday at 16:00 at Neo Química Arena in round 25 of the league.

Source: Meu Timao

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