Mohamed-Ali Cho could lead Nice line after Wahi injury | OneFootball

With Elye Wahi sidelined by an ankle injury, Mohamed-Ali Cho could spearhead Nice against Lorient on Sunday, 17:15.

According to L'Équipe, the 22-year-old appears Claude Puel’s leading option up front after Terem Moffi was loaned to Porto until the end of the season. It is not his usual role, yet his attributes are seen as a fit. He has featured in 14 league matches this season, scoring four.

Franck Haise, Puel’s predecessor, used him as a number nine mainly when Nice had under 45% possession. Under-21 coach Gérald Baticle highlights his explosiveness and ability to attack space, while noting improvements needed with back-to-goal play, layoffs and limiting technical waste. He suggests target duties could broaden Cho’s game.

Former Angers boss Stéphane Moulin is convinced he can do it, stressing Cho’s left foot and eye for goal but saying his qualities show best with space because of his speed. He argues finishing is not the problem, young players’ numbers often come later, especially when used wide or favouring dribbling. Moulin adds that Cho hits the ball hard but needs a touch more finesse, as seen with his second in the 4-1 win at Nantes on 25 January.

Team-mate Morgan Sanson feels Cho is growing within the collective and that greater efficiency would open bigger opportunities. He views Cho as the attack’s leader and believes a central stint could aid his development given his strong body work, and even benefit him when returning to the flank.

Source: L'Équipe