Lukaku to start on bench as Fenerbahçe face OL in Champions League play-offs | OneFootball

Romelu Lukaku will be in Fenerbahçe’s squad to face OL in the Champions League play-offs, but the 33-year-old is set to start on the bench after joining on 13 August.

According to Le Progres, the Belgian has been registered for the tie under a UEFA rule permitting the addition of a player qualified at national level, with OL’s Swiss defender Zachary Atekhame also eligible.

Head coach Ismail Kartal said Lukaku would be in the squad and called him courageous, determined and positive, but not yet at 100 percent and short of some endurance. He added they want to draw on his experience and power.

Lukaku believes he can already help the team, yet he will be Fenerbahçe’s high-profile option from the bench. The former Anderlecht, Chelsea, West Bromwich, Everton, Manchester United, Inter, Roma and Napoli striker has arrived in Türkiye to play for the ninth club of his career.

Kartal said Brazilian forward Talisca, involved since the start of pre-season and trusted by the staff, will lead the line. He said they are counting on the supporters’ energy and noted Lyon’s preference for possession and build-up involving the goalkeeper. Fenerbahçe plan to press high in search of a positive first-leg result before the return.

Source: Le Progres

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