Valencia hit by late Santamaria illness before Mallorca trip | OneFootball

Valencia travel to Son Moix for a pivotal survival clash with RCD Mallorca, but a late illness has ruled out Baptiste Santamaria, according to Superdeporte.

The midfielder did not board the plane with his team-mates after being hit by a virus. He was not expected to feature much, although a need to drop Pepelu deeper could have given him minutes in the second half.

His absence will be covered by Lucas Núñez, who is in outstanding form this season. He has been a key figure in Valencia Mestalla’s resurgence under Óscar Sánchez and now returns to the first-team squad after an impressive pre-season.

Valencia have several absentees and have included Valencia Mestalla players in the squad for the trip to Mallorca.

There is one boost, with Hugo Duro, previously a doubt, included in the travelling party.

Source: Superdeporte