Diniz hails Memphis cameo and weighs fit at Corinthians with Yuri Alberto return | OneFootball

Fernando Diniz praised Memphis Depay’s impact despite Corinthians’ 2-1 defeat at Coritiba, rating the forward as extra class and highlighting the pressure he puts on opponents. He said it was Memphis’s best display under him after a 51-minute outing from the bench.

The 32-year-old replaced Pedro Raul at half-time and led the line until Gui Negão came on after 26 minutes of the second half. According to Meu Timao, he produced two shots and one chance created, completed 18 of 20 passes, and made 37 actions on the ball, finishing as the fans’ highest-rated Corinthians player.

This was only his second appearance since signing a new deal. On Thursday he entered after 23 minutes of the second half and set up Breno Bidon to secure progression past Rosario Central into the Copa Libertadores quarter-finals.

Diniz did not rule out using Memphis as a false nine, calling it one option when Yuri Alberto is available. He stressed it will not be automatic and will depend on what is best for the team.

Yuri Alberto has been sidelined since 30 July with a grade 2 injury to the back of his right thigh. Memphis will again be an option against Santos on Sunday at Neo Química Arena, kick-off 16:00, in Brasileirão round 25, the opponents for his only goal this season for Timão.

Source: Meu Timao

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