Santos face Flamengo with doubts over Arthur as Neymar nears return | OneFootball

Santos have begun preparations to face Flamengo on Thursday at Vila Belmiro with several selection doubts, most notably around Arthur’s fitness.

According to Globo.com, the midfielder felt his right hamstring tighten in the second half against São Paulo on Friday and immediately asked to come off. He later said he felt fine and did not expect anything serious. Scans are scheduled for Monday.

With only three on-pitch sessions before the game, it is unlikely Arthur completes them all, which places his chances of starting in doubt.

Benjamín Rollheiser is likely to bolster the side after missing the derby due to diarrhoea and vomiting minutes before kick-off, remaining in the Morumbis dressing room. He improved over the weekend and should be available.

Top scorer Gabigol, on 23 goals with 10 assists, should not be a concern. The number nine struck twice before being replaced by Thaciano and has no injury, so he is expected to be ready after rest and recovery.

Defender Luan Peres returns after suspension. Neymar could also come into contention, having completed transition work on the pitch at CT Rei Pelé, and should at least be in the squad. Wednesday marks five weeks since his injury.

Cebolinha is ineligible due to a clause in his agreement after leaving Flamengo, which would require a high fee to face his former club, and that will not be paid.

Source: Globo.com

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”