AS Monaco lacking attacking options against Ligue 1 leaders Lens | OneFootball

Sébastien Pocognoli does not have an embarassment of riches heading into Saturday’s game against Ligue 1 leaders RC Lens.

There is a crisis of availability in the forward positions for AS Monaco. Maghnes Akliouche came off injured against FC Nantes last Friday, but despite doubts over a hip injury, he played against Paris Saint-Germain in midweek. Yet those injury concerns remain and Pocognoli confirmed during Thursday’s press conference that the France international was once again a doubt for this weekend’s game. It is his hip that remains an issue. 

Takumi Minamino is a long-term absentee and Pocognoli confirmed that he likely won’t play again for Monaco this season, although there is hope that he could represent Japan at this summer’s World Cup. Against Lens, the Principality club are also without Aleksandr Golovin, but that absence is self-inflicted.

Pocognoli expects ‘more leadership’ from Monaco’s Golovin

The Russian is out through suspension, having been sent off for two quickfire yellows (both for dissent) against Nantes, before then also being shown a straight red against PSG in the UEFA Champions League in midweek. Given that Golovin’s performances have improved in recent weeks, despite his indiscipline (three assists in last two matches), Pocognoli said that his absence was “frustrating”. 

He added, “We are allowed to expect him to show more leadership during these emotional moments.” Ansu Fati missed the game against PSG. He remains uncertain to face Les Sang et Or, but his availability would be a boost in a position where Monaco would usually have depth, but who now find themselves starved of options.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle – reporting from Monaco